Just found this channel, and I'm at least glad to hear an unbiased voice out there. Curated definitely has the least trustworthy ski reviews, and SkiEssentials is always going to provide an overly positive review on skis because they are also trying to sell them. Something that needs to be normalized is recognizing that every ski has a negative side. Damp skis sacrifice poppiness, skinny skis sacrifice float, nimble skis sacrifice stability at speed, and something I was so glad to hear in this review is that a "1 ski quiver" has sacrifices in all conditions. Anyone who skis a lot and takes the sport seriously needs at least two pairs of skis. Affordable secondhand skis are super easy to find, so there's really no excuse to be carving ice on an Enforcer 100 or skiing the best pow of the year on a Mindbender 89.
Totally! Especially if you look this time of year there are really good deals, or honestly I have found some of my favorite skis at ski swaps. Thanks for the nice comment and thanks for watching!
I’ve skied two generations of the Enforcer 100 and loved them both. Great ski if you’re bigger / stronger and love to rip the front side in variable western conditions.
I think your right about weight. My brother is 50 lbs heavier than me and rips on these skis but I found them sloppy compared to my Bonafides I had back then. Both were 180 range.
You must have gotten a bad pair. This 100 enforcer is one of the best skis I have ever been on. I have skiied most everything, and always go back to the enfocer
I’ve skied the same pair of 18’ enforcers at least once every season since. That one lacks some of the newer elements that take weight out of the tip, but what you outline here is pretty accurate to the old models as well. They love to start turns but really hate to finish them. Even if you’re driving them HARD you can never quite get them to give back what you put into em’. That said, I still really enjoyed them. They’re not excellent at anything but they’re not awful at anything, which works well for days with variable conditions or when I’m not really sure what I’ll end up doing for the day. If I want to rip groomers, I’ll grab my crows, if I’m skiing powder, I’ll take my walkers. If it’s cruddy conditions, or I’m with my brother and have no idea where he’ll take me, I’ll grab my enforcers. That said, to act like there’s no trade offs (which basically every ski review channel does) and that it’s a perfect set of twigs is not quite accurate lol.
great points and accurate assessment, I really liked the 2025 Enforcer 99's I would keep an eye out for them, they kept all of the upsides you described while fixing some of the things I struggled to enjoy in the 2024s
I have skied for 50 years and work in the ski industry for 40 years. Personally I have skied the Enforcer 100 for 5 seasons as my everyday driver at Alta. I also had Bonafides, Volkl 100eight.and Rustler 9. During that time period. Now that I am back in NE I use the Enforcer 94 when conditions are softer or deeper. It’s is versatile but for typical NE conditions I use a Brahma 88 or Deacon 84 as my everyday driver because they love firm conditions. The Enforcers tip shape and contact point are designed more for deeper softer conditions. It was a good Alta ski because it fit the typical snow conditions.
I kinda felt the same way about the 100’s the first day on them. Until I tuned it myself to a 0.75 base bevel with a 3 degree it completely TRANSFORMED the ski the edge hold and carving performance nearly to the level of the Bonafide.
My expert Andy on Curated is in fact an expert. He recommended some powder skis (Anima)for me and they were awesome. They weren’t any extra cost either. I think I paid $700 for $1100 retail.
Hey I just found your channel. Skiing is my main jam in life for 35 years. I've never competed but ski with lots of people who have. I agree with you about the curated skiers and their recommendations. They mostly looked like early intermediate skiers who like to send and giver. Not exactly the best to find the nuances of skis. I found the 2018 enforcer 100 to have a lot of energy especially when compared enforcer 104. That's a smears dud
I have been skiing for 20 years and the enforces are the best all mountain skis that I have ever had ... the perform very well in all types of snow and crud ...
Hi Elliot, I have seen all your videos. Great fun and educational. I live in Twin with 180 days of my retired life at Pomerelle. Would love to ski Bogus with you next year on my dime.😁👍🏼
I like your honest opinions and evaluations of skis vs. popular ski reviews. It is refreshing to hear someone address the technique of reviewers, and how that can affect the quality of their assessment of a ski. I kind of agree about the enforcer 100. I’ve enjoyed them in off piste, bumps and heavy conditions, and have arced turns occasionally, but they feel so slow edge to edge and lacks some precision and energy that I tend to enjoy. Definitely an over rated ski, although not a bad ski in my opinion. I would love to see more footage of your high performance skiing, to get a better idea of how you use skis and where you’re coming from with your assessments.
Totally! You can see more of my skiing in some of my recent ski reviews from this summer: K2 Mindbender99ti: ruclips.net/video/85dRP7FtgWA/видео.html&ab_channel=RicketySkiReviews
@@RicketySkiReviews thank you! I can tell you know what you’re doing on skis. I hate to be this guy, but it almost looks like you could narrow up your stance a little bit because that wide stance appears to be causing you to fall too much to your inside ski causing it to wash out a tad but I could be wrong!!…. that’s just how it appears on camera.
@@RicketySkiReviews after watching more of you’re skiing, I might be wrong! It was just a gut reaction when my eye caught something that might not be a problem. You make clean arcs with both skis, and look very purposeful with your positioning. All despite what appears to be sticky snow!
I also reviewed the Blackops Sender (which I know is related but their naming convention is confusing) and I really liked it as well: ruclips.net/video/sckg_d4tTww/видео.html
East had some good storms this year. . .... Also had some long dry spells. Stowe gets snow! I Had more inches at stowe in 1 weekend this year than my last 4 trips out west combined!!! You never know where it will snow!!! Timing is everything
The enforcers feel different forsure, I had a blast on em when I got the chance to try them. That said, I’m a really big dude and they were a bit too small for me and I tried em out, they felt very “different” and felt like I had to put a bit more energy into my turns, but since I’m a big dude I enjoyed swinging my weight into those edges a lot These are fun IMO, but they don’t carve great in comparison to many of the other brands and ski’s I’ve tried. Maybe I’ll look for something else instead lol
That makes sense! The one thing I learn every year is that just when I think I know which brands I like, it changes. So trying something new never hurts! I'm a fairly big guy myself and I love the Atomics and Salomon skis, but I was also really surprised by the K2 Minbenders and Fischer Rangers. Definitely worth checking out if you get the opportunity.
Neat video.. Bobs background is mogul comp... I think they like the enforcer line because its kinda the original two sheets of metal all mountain ski. Also I think because it does well in east coast boiler plate or softer days with decent dampening. Other skis have caught up and surpassed imo but I get why there is still a loyal following. Like Glocks in the shooting sports world 🤷♂️ . Also the enforcer is a freeride ski designed to allow the tails to break easier so makes sense with how you describe your preferred skiing style you'd like a ski that locks you into a turn more and is harder to break the tails loose. Just my guess though.
I agree with your assessment. When conditions are firm I leave the Enforcer 94 in the locker and take the Brahma 88 or Deacon 84 to carve turns on the groomers because they engage quickly and finish the turn. The Enforcer is designed to accommodate variable snow because of the tip and tail shape, contact point that is closer towards the center and rocker profile. I don’t expect them to carve a turn but they are easy to move around when you need to adjust to variable terrain and conditions.
Hi , Oh, Part of my quiver is an Enforcer 104. Saw your Nordica video too late, but, I cruise on em and don’t load them up in a turn. And as a retired fireman I’m used to snarky attitudes😂
I got Enforcer 94's last year as my "not so fresh snow" all-arounder / carving ski, but was SHOCKED to discover they're almost as good as my old full-rocker Volkl Gotama 108s in all but the softest powder....so much so that I'll not bother taking the powder skis traveling anymore unless tons of powder is absolutely guaranteed. They grip like crazy on the groomers, too. I'm 215 pounds so your mileage may vary. My previous all-around was a Volkly Kendo, which I didn't like unless I was going at 9/10.
I'm looking for Enforcer 100 replacements for next season. I'm early advanced and ski mostly in Sweden on smaller hills and the Alps every year. I'm looking for something carving focused. I hate skis without metal in them and i find many skis i try to feel a bit flimsy and unstable. I'm 6'1 and 210lbs athletic build. It doesn't have to be all mountain skis as my enforcers are still serviceable. I find them heavy on the feet though and not playful. I also don't like them in trees. With an aggressive tune I think they hold pretty good in ice too. Any ideas?
Hmm, I'm a similar build, but I don't know exactly what you would like. What skis have you owned in the past that you really loved? Here's what I bought: ruclips.net/video/lHq9KLNouTQ/видео.html I love the Atomic Maverick 88Ti's for carving, but could also say that you might really dig the Fischer Rangers Or K2 Mindbenders (though the K2's are also a bit of a crud cutter ski that just rails once it locks in). In the video above I also got a pair of Salomon Qst's I thought they did a great job in the woods being playful, but also did a great job carving and felt super comfortable at the arc of the turn, but full disclosure I got the 106's as a powder ski (where as you said you're looking for Carving) ruclips.net/video/EQfNdAGt1KU/видео.html It was in an earlier video but I bought the Atomic Mavericks and Recommend them to personal friends. If it helps you can see me ski some flatter sections and review next years 95ti and 100Tis. ruclips.net/video/JjtSLtniAbA/видео.html But I would definitely still watch the videos above to see if these skis have the characteristics that are most important to you. Hope that helps and thanks so much for watching!
Finally! Someone that agrees with me about enforcers. Demoed them a couple years ago at Alta and HATED them for exactly the reasons you state. They just don’t come around at the bottom of the turn, and feel completely dead. Ruins the most fun part of carving. I tried Head Kore 93s on the same trip and own them now. Exact opposite experience - Kores explode at the bottom. Not surprisingly, I have the same east coast racing background, love the ski essentials guy, but always noticed the guys don’t finish their turns and throw their skis to initiate.
I think you should have a go on the 88 too for context. The 100 suits out West USA where there is more chance of 3d snow, while 88 is more front side on harder snow capable. I have both and ski the 88 95% where I live in NZ. I take the 88 to Europe and Whistler and the 100s to Japan. Even on the 94 you would notice some difference comparitivly.
I agree actually! That's my plan if I get the chance, I don't know how much it will affect my review, since alot of what I disliked was in the build with loading energy and flex. But maybe something will click better with the timing and responsiveness! I will definitely look into it. Just to clarify I ski in the west now, but grew up skiing in the east coast, but I think it's still a valid thing to test out! Thanks for your nice comment and for watching!
Agree, Ski Essentials reviews are good, Curated blows. I bought the Enforcer 93 years ago for western hard pack and ice but found it to be awesome in shallow chop and off piste variable terrain where I spend more time jumping off every bump or drop available. Finishing a turn and getting some pop is less important to me in 3D snow. I like the Enforcer’s balance of being stout enough to not get deflected but forgiving enough that I don’t have to think about what’s on my feet - just point and shoot. My $0.02.
No I love it! Great insight, thanks for sharing. I didn't like them, but I can see how others would enjoy them, especially how you described. I mostly just want to call out the ski shops and online reviews calling it an "all in one" ski. Because I definitely felt like it was lacking in areas. But don't let me yuck your yum, glad you're loving them!
on the one ski quiver thing, i currently im just on the line blade optic 96s for everything from park to pow. Im looking at some rossingol black ops 118s or mfree 114s for powder. I always go a size up on skis because i ride skis with big tails. (im 5 10 and i usually go in the 180-185 range, id be in the 170s on flat tails, rearmounted ski. I tried the new nordica unleasheds and they were simply unpleasant. they demanded good technique but gave you no reward for the technique. no energy out of your turns and just were cumbersome. I agree 100% with your nordica takes. Why have a twin tip ski if i cant smear and slide on it? the enforcer is like a beefed up twin tip but none of the upsides and all of the downsides. if youre going to review more skis, id like you to talk about techniques that would pair well with the skis you review. cheers
I have enforcer 93, I love charging them very hard on groomers, it is too heavy, makes it difficult to be nimble enough btw trees and tires me very quick, other than this, this is very good ski, I think everybody's expectation is all different.
I ski the Enforcer 100 and it's like a fast car with stability control. I think your skiing style just doesn't suit it. I'm a strong skier but no where NEAR your ability level. I went from the Volkl Mantra M5s and these felt way more stable, easy turning. Having said that I think I would like to go with something a little more lively as my son is now a legit expert and I can't get the enforcers to move as fast as I like in the trees. What I really like about the enforcer is where I live in Central Oregon you the snow can change on a time depending on the wind. We get collections of powder, crud and ice and it saved my ass when it I got caught out on super slick ice or visa versa. It felt like it helped me correct myself and saved a fall. I think you just are skiing beyond it's target audience. In car terms it's like the difference between a track car and a fast touring car.
Love the channel. I am a fan of the enforcers and was thinking of your comments about middle aged guys loving this ski. What hit me was that most of us in that age group learned on the old traditional long narrow skis - these kind of remind me of those in terms of stability and the way they react. Now I disagree with you that these skis don’t have energy - they do if you really load them up. They are not a carving ski - they are great for east coast crud and are decent on groomers but if I want to “carve” I’m on my dobermann or thunderbirds for that. Next I want you to do a review on stockli laser ar, which everyone raves about but I found to be way overdamped without any feel (this will no doubt be an unpopular comment)!!
The latest Skiessentials comparison that included Enforcer 100s was a lot less positive about them. They called them outdated and basically said that since the Enforcers came out other companies have released newer skis that carve 99% as well while being way lighter and more versatile. In a different video Bob said he doesn't use his anymore. I have a set of Enforcer 94s that I love, but only when I cycle commute every day and keep my fitness high. I actually found this video because I'm looking at skis like the QST 98 for days when I don't want to give it everything I have on every run.
Oh wow, I will check it out, I know they've said they watch this channel, so it's possible. And I loved the Qst98, it was one of my skis of the year! ruclips.net/video/lHq9KLNouTQ/видео.htmlsi=2u1hZDphTEsb7ZfO
@Rickety Ski Reviews Elliot, was it specifically the Enforcer 100 that you thought sucked? I got the Enforcer 88, with the intention of having good edge hold in icy & generally hardpack Aussie conditions - and just generally going fast on groomers. didn't get to ski this southern hemisphere season, was a crappy season anyway. The 88s are WAY wider in the tip and tail than my old school Atomic ARC SL 203 (circa early 90s) that I used as an AM ski, sometimes in Pow, but mostly groomers and moguls. There isn't generally much decent pow in Australian resorts. I would get a more pow oriented ski if I was going on a Japan or Canada trip.
Yes, I can only speak to the Nordica Enforcer 100 I didn't try any other widths, but they felt flat and unresponsive. Not a defective ski or anything, they can certainly hold an edge and make a downhill platform but they don't give you any pop out of your turns when you're carving. Here's the full review: ruclips.net/video/-OqMOElIGuc/видео.htmlsi=XtCkSPnExrR1E97v It could be that you like them, but I thought the enforcer 100's did not live up to the hype. Will have to try some different widths next time perhaps.
Skied the enforcer 86(?) at Palisades and Alpine Meadows in 2022, I thought the same thing. Heavy, stable, good edge grip... but award winner? I have Kore 93 and had gen3 mantra... the old mantras were far superior IMO. The kores are far, far superior
No idea if you read old comments, but something I’ve noticed in your reviews is that your content is targeted at a very small group of skiers - true experts, especially those with a racing background. I really enjoy your content, and always appreciate hearing informed opinion, but after watching a bunch of your reviews, felt like maybe you’d appreciate some constructive criticism/questions. Anyways here it is: how do you define an intermediate? And do you think most people you put in that category would agree with that assessment? And of the people watching review videos to figure out which ski to buy, do you think that the majority would disagree with your assessment? My gut instinct is to that last question is yes, since if I had to guess, your definition of intermediates includes the “I ski lots of double black diamond crowd”. But I think it helps explain the distance in how you feel/talk about the ski with relation to how other reviewers talk about it. My wholly subjective opinion is that most people watching ski reviews aren’t even skiers you would consider advanced, and don’t understand drawbacks to some features you really like, like the ability to get energy from the tails in the turn. I personally don’t particularly enjoy the enforcers for a very similar reason to you: it’s got a weak tail, especially for a charger. But it’s that very characteristic that makes it one of the top skis I tell people about when they want baby’s first charger, or are just looking for a heavy damp ski that’s also not a burden when skiing poorly. Having a weak tail makes it so much more accessible than something like an m6, while retaining a good top end which makes it such a safe recommendation - it eliminates some of the “know thyself” nature of picking a good ski. Anyways, just my 2c - it’s possible (and maybe probable) what I said is super self evident, but on the off chance it isn’t and you haven’t thought about it, might give you something to mull over. Love the videos, and will definitely enjoy watching more =)
Hi- I've watch some of your reviews and to some extent this review has a few things I disagree with, and I think it stems from what you value in a ski. I'm not exactly the biggest fan of this ski as well, but I think you might be missing the point of it a bit. (don't want to sound rude sorry) This ski isn't supposed to be an energetic, responsive carver, or light and playful through bumps. It weighs 2100-2200 grams, and is one of the heaviest skis in its category. This ski is made for someone who wants a ski that feels stable at high speeds in bad conditions, on groomers or off-trail. I've watched a few of your other videos, and noticed that a lot of your carving is at more moderate speeds, maybe on softer snow. These ski essentials reviewers are some of the best/most aggressive skiers I've ever seen, and are absolutely flying down the hill. At high speeds, a "poppy" energetic ski might throw you out of the turn a little, while the enforcers might return a more appropriate energy at those speeds, even if it feels lacking at more moderate ones. I definitely agree that the ski essentials reviews are overly positive to the point of making them less helpful, and also would agree that this ski isn't a great choice for most of the people you see on it.
That's a fair point, Here's some inside info: We're pretty new to videoing while skiing, so alot of the skiing you see is videoed with someone following, so we always tend to dial back the speed, so that the camera man can follow smoothly while trying to keep the person in frame (typically they have to pizza and stay in the middle of the lane). So alot of the skiing you're seeing is altered to make sure the cameraman can follow safely and keep me in frame (or when I record zach it's the other way around). That being said, I come from Ski Racing In Vermont and NH USSA leagues, and Raced in College, and I can tell you these skis don't improve much with speed in my opinion, and if you have to go so fast that your momentum can compensate for an unresponsive ski, then the ski probably has alot of weak points. Hope that helps, if nothing else maybe you found some of that info insightful. Thanks for watching and thanks for your polite comment!
@@RicketySkiReviews That's a fair point, I mean I would also never buy a pair of enforcers. I also didn't mean to insult your skiing, you totally shred.
Don't stop being snarky... I like it. It's critical thinking-- objective and refreshing in this day where everyone's either trying to sell you something or trying not to offend someone. F^*# it. Speak the truth. Look-- not only do people have different skiing styles, but ski manufacturers simply make diiferent feeling skis. IMO, from what I've seen, Volkl and Blizzard tend to make slightly heavier, damper skis. And at least when I owned the 2014 Brahma, it was a stable, quick ski but... I wouldn't call it springy, poppy, or playful. Maybe it was the 2 sheets of metal that weighed it down, but I've heard Atomics have the same sort of feel as my 2016 Faction Prodigys albeit with metal. I had the 2012 Theory which had that playful feel w/o metal. I like a playful ski especially in bumps where if the ski doesn't have spring, they tend to feel too damp and heavy. And in bumps and short, technical turns, the last thing you want is to have to unweight aggressively. The ski's supposed to do that, not your upper body. But it can't if it doesn't have camber or is too damp. Interestingly, with those 2016 Prodigys, you can definitely load up the tail in longer turns and get a ton of spring even w/o metal. But today's Prodigy 2.0 doesn't have any hardwood, so I'd be leary of getting the new model. I really think that 88TI with its playful feel would one up my skis b/c they'll feel similar but probably perform better on harder snow and the narrower waist a bit quicker in bumps. And realistically, for the few powder days we see on the EC, I think that 88TI would be good enough... especially since after a few hours it's pretty cut up anyway and I'm sure those things will blast through that. I would take issue with bump skiers wanting a `surfy' ski. No. You want a knife where you can cut quick pivoting edge sets for control. Awesome reviews!
Thanks so much for your nice comment! I totally agree, I do think too that there are some really nice skis out there that do a good job balancing both, so it's weird when people excuse skis that can't carve at all. If that's what you like I was pretty impressed with the K2 Mindbenders. I have never owned K2's and had kind of written them off, but was pleasantly surprised. Once they lock into the turn they really kind of railroad through aggressively.. Thanks for your comment and for watching!
@@RicketySkiReviews Thanks but I'm still leaning toward the 88TI. It has the same specs as the Brahma but more of a crud busting tip and lighter. And since the Maverick replaced the Vanatge which replaced the Theory, logic would imply all 3 lines share similar characteristics. Still curious about your thoughts on the Rustler 9 though when you get a chance.
Oh totally! I bought the 88Ti's myself, just thinking of other things to compare to. Sometimes the shops will let you use x number of rentals towards your purchase. But yeah I actually bought the 88ti's myself which is the best endorsement I can give haha.
@@RicketySkiReviews Yeah-- definitely not averse to trying different brands. I bought those Factions having never heard of the company. It was just I came back from that trip to the Alps and couldn't believe a ski 96 under foot could be so snappy and precise. Guess I also figured if they were good enough for Candide, they're good enough for the rest of us lol. Like I said though, I doubt the new ones ski the same having no hardwood or metal in them.
Like in love, I can't put word on my feeling. I'll never be a good ski reviewer 😅 those Nordica are pure brute. A lot of people gonna hate me but the vast majority of skier own too stiff and expert skis for their ability.
Since it wasn't an Atomic Maverick, I didn't think you'd like this ski. Just so weird when out West people love the 110, 104, etc. and you think it's a bad ski. I know of two people who legit bought brand new back-ups of those respective skis (one the 110, the other 104), since word was they would change for 2024-2025. You speak so broadly on what is or isn't a good ski, that after watching a few of these, I think you just might like one specific style of ski/way to ski. That's totally fine, but for a channel just making fun of other reviews... it'd be easy to turn this around on you. I think there's a reason the Enforcer line has a cult following, because it's a great stable damp ski that can carve. On demo day I did demo a Maverick 100. Liked it, but found the limit fast. Possibly an East vs West thing. I want my skis to do it all. Not just carve smooth groomers. I think you need to branch out to different types of skiing and terrain. Just is weird. I love this ski, as many do who are elite and advanced skiers in Utah.
One thing that the team at ski essentials do really well is identify their preferences and apply that to their reviews. You callout the Fisher Ranger line a lot. IMO that’s unequivocally an intermediate ski. I made the mistake of buying a pair and now I own nothing but enforcers (104 free, 104 unlimited, 110 free). The thing that bothers me, and others, about this review is that you just dog on the ski without really acknowledging your capabilities or style all that well. “Not for me” doesn’t quite get the job done. Let’s be honest, Jeff carves harder backside than you do frontside (no offense). If you really want to give an honest review a wide range of skis, you have to have the ability to drive any of them the way they were meant to be driven. I don’t have strong opinions on curated but it comes across as if you’re doing the same thing you’re accusing them of… judging a ski you aren’t able to extract the maximal value from. If your review were about how too many intermediates are on enforcer 100s, I might agree with you. P.s. you should definitely try the unleashed or unlimited lines if you haven’t already.
Plenty of footage on the channel, but here's a recent video from this summer: It's a 79mm in the slushy summer snow in OR, so not Ideal, but like I said, very recent. ruclips.net/video/JEh6nPAAHgY/видео.htmlsi=RtewWRZS4b5GTDKw&t=22 Thanks for watching
@RicketySkiReviews We ski Lost Trail Powder Mountain which is half in Idaho half in Montana. So we are kind of neighbors! We are getting psyched for opening day with quite a bit of snow today. Might see you out there this season.
I mean Enforcers are especially underwhelming for people who knows how to edge, carve and make dynamic turns in general i.e. people with ski racing background. To paraphrase Winston Churchill, it’s a modest ski with much to be modest about.
I've never seen any of these ski review "experts" take a pair of skis on runs that experts ski, namely steep mogul fields. 90% of what they ski is fresh groomers, the rest is some occasional powder and crud, stuff that pretty much any advanced intermediate can ski.
You won't get snap at the end of a turn on runs that are FLAT and not on a steep . But the top ripping skiers will be ripping so fast like GS SKIERS on steep as well 😂 If your on the tails you're off balanced at the end off a turn Watch the INTERSCHOOL ski instructors. And ski length is another comes with expert level and where one is skiing Europe alps or BC Canada or small Stowe or Australia Skis are expensive yes one can get a stockli or head or Fischer semi race bit wider ski between slalom and gs as a extra groomer day ski If you ski and travel and work on mountain . But 90% of the time 100mm ski can do everything . K2 FACTION OR LINE BLACKCROWS new ROSSI 110MM beefier skies When I look at old skis heavier K2 with 98mm 180cm and no early rise or tail rise that's like a 190cm with same weight and same contact points longer because of the ELF show effect I seen some youtubers go short and looks silly and there skiing goes backwards on a 170cm ROCKERED ELF SHOE Rise n ALPINE is on Nordica he skies Whistler and longer lengths because it's Whistler . RISE AND ALPINE ps most of your recommendations are spot on tho 179cm at KICKING HORSE bit short but doable mine are 179cm beefy K2 SETH SKIS sable stiffer and that era was no ROCKER so sit on the snow like a 188cm more float 185cm stability and charging factor comes down to where one skis my opinion is have your eye on 3 types of skis K2 are great prices if want a BLACKCROWS HYPE they sell out so rare on sale so look to LINE BLADE OPTIC love to try - FACTION - MOMENT - NEW ROSSI SENDER FREE I bet ROSSI do a 100mm SENDER FREE SKI COMPANIES do to many ski's
Thanks for your insightful comment and thanks for watching! I like a 176 for trees and groomers and a 182 for powder skis, but that's just my personal preference and what I like for turn shape etc.
We have seen Bob and Jeff ski. Where are your videos? You have to have some height and weight to bend these. I have a pair of Enforcer 88's 180 cm that I love
Sure, this is from last month at Mt Hood: ruclips.net/video/85dRP7FtgWA/видео.html I'm certainly a bigger dude, but I can appreciate these skis maybe just didn't match up with what I prioritize. Thanks for watching!
Didn't realize this, when I was shopping this spring I didn't see any competitive pricing, but that makes sense I suppose. It sounds like the company buys in bulks, fulfills, and negotiates with the manufacturer for better pricing (though Idk, doesn't every online seller do this?) Do you ever have incentives to sell a certain ski if it's got a high inventory in the warehouse or anything similar?
@@RicketySkiReviews we never have any incentive to sell one ski over another. Curated gets the skis wholesale through relationships with manufacturers, as any site would. I get access to the standard industry demo days too. That said, commissions are based on the value of what you sell (hard goods and soft goods have slightly different rates). You may think that means you push more expensive skis, but the average low-information buyer looking for help is usually VERY price sensitive. I get people looking for full setups for like 250 bucks. Like I commented before, the vast majority of my sales are selling previous model-year gear and beating someone's price expectations for a setup. The assumption by many is that Curated must mark up the skis to provide the expert help, but in reality they are just betting on the volume that comes with providing help on these high dollar-value purchases. Experts who spend full-time effort on Curated can make a full-time living off the ~10% commission as well as some bonuses for copy writing and content production. I spend my time on the platform servicing friends and past customers (since I can price match and they appreciate my input). This activity maintains my industry status for events and discounts.
he drops his inside hand - that puts weight back on tails end of the turn THINK THE 104MM get more beefy than 100mm ruclips.net/video/Ub9DX5emmlc/видео.html like I said ski companies make to many skis - I get confused
Yes and no. It may put some weight on, but you can push off from the ski, without sacrificing your center of balance. Alot of times people only get away with these weird habits, because they use momentum to hide their lack of balance/ body position. Thanks for the recommendation. Love seeing your comments!
skis reviews are full of garbage fluff a ton of the time. it's annoying. it's why I end up paying for blister to get atleast some consistency in their reviews.
I understand your review. You are not from the east coast and you do not understand what these skis are for. As the proud owner of some 104 free's which I ski in NE almost exclusively, let me bend you ear about something. These skis offer a different way to ski through the trees that doesn't require wildly diving from ski to ski and massive leg work. You need to stand more over the top and instead of moving the skis from side to side, you must ski them from side to side (downhill, just get your feet in a good position under your hips and step over the edge). There is no cheating with these skis, let me tell you. If you try to "pull" the skis across the fall line, you will get dumped and bucked, but if you wait and use your and the skis momentum, they are truly divine. What you've told me is something I can confirm, these are skis for experts only. Intermediate will get tired quickly and gain no advantages. 😊
Full disclosure, the 90s skis aren't as good. Smaller platform just doesn't work the same and the weight really bites into the ground (which you don't always want on ice).
Unlimited has no metal and just isn't the same ski. BUT, you also kinda hated on the storm rider, so I think you just have a style that cannot be adjusted for conditions or skis. Nothing wrong with that... These skis are heaven for carving until it gets a bit too solidly icy (which we get by 3pm here regularly) then they start getting bounced and heavy bouncing skis aren't great on the knees.
Far too many people are happy with these skis for you to just dismiss the buyers as being Fools. (No hate here... just some feedback.) I think you did a good job of highlighting exactly why the folks at Ski Essentials do such a great job. There are always tradeoffs from one ski to another. You prioritize having big energy in the bottom of your turn. That's a very specific ask of a ski. This ski does not work for you, but the shape and construction work well for a lot of people. You seem to be trying pretty hard to convince people that these skis won't work for them. Not sure why. What skis do you like? Which other new skis best suit your style this season. Watch the Ski Essentials Ski Comparison videos where they take deep dives into a full category of 15-20 skis and give pros and cons on every ski they feature. They never tell you what to buy. They offer pros and cons to every ski and say that there are perfect skis out there for every skier. If you want to talk about skis on the internet just because it's a hobby, great. I wish you well. Maybe back off of the name calling and the pure criticism. You just need a different ski than this one. Maybe go watch the comparison videos on SkiEssentials.com to help you make the best choice...
I think people can like whatever ski makes them happy. But the majority of other ski review channels are talking only about the skis perks, rather than it's drawbacks (because they also sell that ski) so I want to make sure people who are buying just understand the skis drawbacks and weaknesses (which even my favorite skis have) You should check out my more recent commentary on this ski which I think is a bit more even keeled in this regard: I address this in the first 2 minutes here: ruclips.net/video/V7m63ZJR_0w/видео.htmlsi=AK2RjiVpPSJU-4jN And talk about the skis more here: ruclips.net/video/xLPjhjbM0Lo/видео.htmlsi=ncHGroLBuRiej_R0 That all being said, I don't think this ski carves very well, but if you like it more power to you! I think it rewards a very specific style of skier and at the very least I think that people should test them before buying them. I have no incentive for people to buy one ski over another, I just want consumers to know that the ski has some serious drawbacks for most skiing styles (as do other skis!) before they run out and buy them. Ski Essentials, while I love them, do in fact sell these skis, so your argument doesn't make much sense, what do you think their incentives are? Thanks for watching.
@@RicketySkiReviews All good man. I appreciate that you put effort into doing things like this. It's always good to hear other people's experiences on a ski before I decide to buy. I agree with a point you made- don't fully trust any single source of information. But also, don't just dismiss a site like skiessentials because they have something to gain if you buy from them. Always do your own research. Choose for yourself which skis are best for you. Not all "popular" skis work for all people. Most importantly, let it snow...
Doesn't take any expert insight to figure out that Curated is trash, but it's not there for anyone who knows anything. As for the ski essentials reviews, you get more info by watching their comparison videos where they go across a smattering of skis in a certain style/class. It's there that you see where they're emphasizing differences and superlatives. The enforcer line is mostly a multi tool line... it's a jack of all trades, aces of none. If you're saying it's a ten or nine of all trades...ok, nice semantics, but I hardly see how that's worth 30min. You just seem to be picking nits for people who are already good to go. Yes, Stockli has some superior qualities...in pretty much all areas when you're talking about comparisons to same-width Stormrider. Not sure how that's a valuable insight. Stormrider are pretty impressive in that segment. Anyway, most of the stuff you're pointing out is pretty obvious to anyone who's skied for a couple seasons or on a couple skis. In the multi-ski comparisons, they talk at length about tail grab-release, turn linking, smeariness, pop, stability at speed, gitteriness, etc. and point back and forth to all the skis to make distinctions. Their single ski reviews are only misleading because they're lacking immediate comparisons.
And your opinion on the qualities of a ski is mostly relevant to you and what you like riding. People need to demo, not get caught believing they’re gonna like a ski because another good skier liked it.
@@boardhead6720 I mean you can still give people baseline insight, There are nearly 100 different ski models out there, and not everyone gets the opportunity to test all of them. I do agree that people should demo themselves though. I recommend it in several videos. This insight is just to help people narrow it down, and what to look for based on what they like. Thanks for watching though.
I did appreciate the times in your video when you are talking about your subjective experienced characteristics in a ski (which will vary from one skier to another) But when you start to talk about a ski being good or bad or worse sucks as if anyone has that objective authority, then you’re not being any more helpful than even Curated. And you are ironically being the same thing you think you’re speaking against.
Other than your early comments on Curated, I don’t agree with your Enforcer 100 review at all. I watched some videos of your skiing to get a better idea of where your coming from. To be fair, you did say your style of skiing is different than Bob’s and it certainly is. But… in my opinion, you don’t appear to have the carving skills of Bob (a mogul expert) or the carving skills of Jeff (a park expert). You look to be around the same age as them, but athletically, you do not appear to be even close to the shape they are in, so there is that…
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Just found this channel, and I'm at least glad to hear an unbiased voice out there. Curated definitely has the least trustworthy ski reviews, and SkiEssentials is always going to provide an overly positive review on skis because they are also trying to sell them.
Something that needs to be normalized is recognizing that every ski has a negative side. Damp skis sacrifice poppiness, skinny skis sacrifice float, nimble skis sacrifice stability at speed, and something I was so glad to hear in this review is that a "1 ski quiver" has sacrifices in all conditions. Anyone who skis a lot and takes the sport seriously needs at least two pairs of skis. Affordable secondhand skis are super easy to find, so there's really no excuse to be carving ice on an Enforcer 100 or skiing the best pow of the year on a Mindbender 89.
Totally! Especially if you look this time of year there are really good deals, or honestly I have found some of my favorite skis at ski swaps. Thanks for the nice comment and thanks for watching!
I’ve skied two generations of the Enforcer 100 and loved them both. Great ski if you’re bigger / stronger and love to rip the front side in variable western conditions.
That's awesome that you love them! nice to see that different skiers can enjoy different skis! Thanks for watching and for commenting.
I think your right about weight. My brother is 50 lbs heavier than me and rips on these skis but I found them sloppy compared to my Bonafides I had back then. Both were 180 range.
You must have gotten a bad pair. This 100 enforcer is one of the best skis I have ever been on. I have skiied most everything, and always go back to the enfocer
Interesting, maybe I need to retest then, thanks for the nice comment
I’ve skied the same pair of 18’ enforcers at least once every season since. That one lacks some of the newer elements that take weight out of the tip, but what you outline here is pretty accurate to the old models as well. They love to start turns but really hate to finish them. Even if you’re driving them HARD you can never quite get them to give back what you put into em’. That said, I still really enjoyed them. They’re not excellent at anything but they’re not awful at anything, which works well for days with variable conditions or when I’m not really sure what I’ll end up doing for the day. If I want to rip groomers, I’ll grab my crows, if I’m skiing powder, I’ll take my walkers. If it’s cruddy conditions, or I’m with my brother and have no idea where he’ll take me, I’ll grab my enforcers. That said, to act like there’s no trade offs (which basically every ski review channel does) and that it’s a perfect set of twigs is not quite accurate lol.
great points and accurate assessment, I really liked the 2025 Enforcer 99's I would keep an eye out for them, they kept all of the upsides you described while fixing some of the things I struggled to enjoy in the 2024s
I have skied for 50 years and work in the ski industry for 40 years. Personally I have skied the Enforcer 100 for 5 seasons as my everyday driver at Alta. I also had Bonafides, Volkl 100eight.and Rustler 9. During that time period. Now that I am back in NE I use the Enforcer 94 when conditions are softer or deeper. It’s is versatile but for typical NE conditions I use a Brahma 88 or Deacon 84 as my everyday driver because they love firm conditions. The Enforcers tip shape and contact point are designed more for deeper softer conditions. It was a good Alta ski because it fit the typical snow conditions.
Great insights thanks Thomas!
I kinda felt the same way about the 100’s the first day on them. Until I tuned it myself to a 0.75 base bevel with a 3 degree it completely TRANSFORMED the ski the edge hold and carving performance nearly to the level of the Bonafide.
I actually really liked the 2025's they made some changes to the stiffness!: ruclips.net/video/7vu96DYoWf8/видео.htmlsi=8-8PAaZc82FwAAWM
My expert Andy on Curated is in fact an expert. He recommended some powder skis (Anima)for me and they were awesome. They weren’t any extra cost either. I think I paid $700 for $1100 retail.
Hey I just found your channel. Skiing is my main jam in life for 35 years. I've never competed but ski with lots of people who have. I agree with you about the curated skiers and their recommendations. They mostly looked like early intermediate skiers who like to send and giver. Not exactly the best to find the nuances of skis. I found the 2018 enforcer 100 to have a lot of energy especially when compared enforcer 104. That's a smears dud
Oh cool! I wonder what changes they made from then to now? Thanks for your nice comment and thanks for watching!
I have been skiing for 20 years and the enforces are the best all mountain skis that I have ever had ... the perform very well in all types of snow and crud ...
Hmm, maybe I need to try them again, wasn't my favorite, but I can appreciate other people might like them. Thanks for watching!
Hi Elliot,
I have seen all your videos. Great fun and educational.
I live in Twin with 180 days of my retired life at Pomerelle.
Would love to ski Bogus with you next year on my dime.😁👍🏼
I like your honest opinions and evaluations of skis vs. popular ski reviews. It is refreshing to hear someone address the technique of reviewers, and how that can affect the quality of their assessment of a ski. I kind of agree about the enforcer 100. I’ve enjoyed them in off piste, bumps and heavy conditions, and have arced turns occasionally, but they feel so slow edge to edge and lacks some precision and energy that I tend to enjoy. Definitely an over rated ski, although not a bad ski in my opinion. I would love to see more footage of your high performance skiing, to get a better idea of how you use skis and where you’re coming from with your assessments.
Totally! You can see more of my skiing in some of my recent ski reviews from this summer:
K2 Mindbender99ti:
ruclips.net/video/85dRP7FtgWA/видео.html&ab_channel=RicketySkiReviews
@@RicketySkiReviews thank you! I can tell you know what you’re doing on skis. I hate to be this guy, but it almost looks like you could narrow up your stance a little bit because that wide stance appears to be causing you to fall too much to your inside ski causing it to wash out a tad but I could be wrong!!…. that’s just how it appears on camera.
Cool thanks for the feedback! I will try and think about this next time I'm on the snow. Always new ways to improve. Appreciate it.
@@RicketySkiReviews after watching more of you’re skiing, I might be wrong! It was just a gut reaction when my eye caught something that might not be a problem. You make clean arcs with both skis, and look very purposeful with your positioning. All despite what appears to be sticky snow!
Agreed! Poppy versatility, true versatility vs imagined..Rossi Sender 94ti, great ski.
I also reviewed the Blackops Sender (which I know is related but their naming convention is confusing) and I really liked it as well: ruclips.net/video/sckg_d4tTww/видео.html
East had some good storms this year. . .... Also had some long dry spells. Stowe gets snow!
I Had more inches at stowe in 1 weekend this year than my last 4 trips out west combined!!! You never know where it will snow!!! Timing is everything
Wow that's wild, I can't even imagine. Glad it was such a good winter this year though! Thanks for the comment and for watching!
The enforcers feel different forsure, I had a blast on em when I got the chance to try them. That said, I’m a really big dude and they were a bit too small for me and I tried em out, they felt very “different” and felt like I had to put a bit more energy into my turns, but since I’m a big dude I enjoyed swinging my weight into those edges a lot
These are fun IMO, but they don’t carve great in comparison to many of the other brands and ski’s I’ve tried. Maybe I’ll look for something else instead lol
That makes sense! The one thing I learn every year is that just when I think I know which brands I like, it changes. So trying something new never hurts! I'm a fairly big guy myself and I love the Atomics and Salomon skis, but I was also really surprised by the K2 Minbenders and Fischer Rangers. Definitely worth checking out if you get the opportunity.
Neat video.. Bobs background is mogul comp... I think they like the enforcer line because its kinda the original two sheets of metal all mountain ski. Also I think because it does well in east coast boiler plate or softer days with decent dampening. Other skis have caught up and surpassed imo but I get why there is still a loyal following. Like Glocks in the shooting sports world 🤷♂️ . Also the enforcer is a freeride ski designed to allow the tails to break easier so makes sense with how you describe your preferred skiing style you'd like a ski that locks you into a turn more and is harder to break the tails loose. Just my guess though.
That logic tracks! Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!
@@RicketySkiReviews 🤙
I agree with your assessment. When conditions are firm I leave the Enforcer 94 in the locker and take the Brahma 88 or Deacon 84 to carve turns on the groomers because they engage quickly and finish the turn. The Enforcer is designed to accommodate variable snow because of the tip and tail shape, contact point that is closer towards the center and rocker profile. I don’t expect them to carve a turn but they are easy to move around when you need to adjust to variable terrain and conditions.
Hi ,
Oh, Part of my quiver is an Enforcer 104. Saw your Nordica video too late, but, I cruise on em and don’t load them up in a turn. And as a retired fireman I’m used to snarky attitudes😂
My brother loves his Enforcer's but when I tried them out I knew they weren't for me and I didn't miss them when I got back on my own skis.
I have a brother like that! His ski style is way different from mine.
I got Enforcer 94's last year as my "not so fresh snow" all-arounder / carving ski, but was SHOCKED to discover they're almost as good as my old full-rocker Volkl Gotama 108s in all but the softest powder....so much so that I'll not bother taking the powder skis traveling anymore unless tons of powder is absolutely guaranteed. They grip like crazy on the groomers, too. I'm 215 pounds so your mileage may vary. My previous all-around was a Volkly Kendo, which I didn't like unless I was going at 9/10.
Right on! Glad you're loving them.
I'm looking for Enforcer 100 replacements for next season. I'm early advanced and ski mostly in Sweden on smaller hills and the Alps every year.
I'm looking for something carving focused. I hate skis without metal in them and i find many skis i try to feel a bit flimsy and unstable. I'm 6'1 and 210lbs athletic build.
It doesn't have to be all mountain skis as my enforcers are still serviceable. I find them heavy on the feet though and not playful. I also don't like them in trees. With an aggressive tune I think they hold pretty good in ice too.
Any ideas?
Hmm, I'm a similar build, but I don't know exactly what you would like. What skis have you owned in the past that you really loved? Here's what I bought:
ruclips.net/video/lHq9KLNouTQ/видео.html
I love the Atomic Maverick 88Ti's for carving, but could also say that you might really dig the Fischer Rangers Or K2 Mindbenders (though the K2's are also a bit of a crud cutter ski that just rails once it locks in).
In the video above I also got a pair of Salomon Qst's I thought they did a great job in the woods being playful, but also did a great job carving and felt super comfortable at the arc of the turn, but full disclosure I got the 106's as a powder ski (where as you said you're looking for Carving)
ruclips.net/video/EQfNdAGt1KU/видео.html
It was in an earlier video but I bought the Atomic Mavericks and Recommend them to personal friends.
If it helps you can see me ski some flatter sections and review next years 95ti and 100Tis.
ruclips.net/video/JjtSLtniAbA/видео.html
But I would definitely still watch the videos above to see if these skis have the characteristics that are most important to you.
Hope that helps and thanks so much for watching!
Ski almost everyday at the Bird for 35yrs. I have all the enforcers. They kill it.
Right on, Snowbird is top tier!
Finally! Someone that agrees with me about enforcers. Demoed them a couple years ago at Alta and HATED them for exactly the reasons you state. They just don’t come around at the bottom of the turn, and feel completely dead. Ruins the most fun part of carving.
I tried Head Kore 93s on the same trip and own them now. Exact opposite experience - Kores explode at the bottom.
Not surprisingly, I have the same east coast racing background, love the ski essentials guy, but always noticed the guys don’t finish their turns and throw their skis to initiate.
Oh that's awesome! I had a similar experience on the Head iRally cheater ski! Thanks for watching and thanks for the nice comment!
I think you should have a go on the 88 too for context.
The 100 suits out West USA where there is more chance of 3d snow, while 88 is more front side on harder snow capable. I have both and ski the 88 95% where I live in NZ.
I take the 88 to Europe and Whistler and the 100s to Japan.
Even on the 94 you would notice some difference comparitivly.
I agree actually! That's my plan if I get the chance, I don't know how much it will affect my review, since alot of what I disliked was in the build with loading energy and flex. But maybe something will click better with the timing and responsiveness! I will definitely look into it.
Just to clarify I ski in the west now, but grew up skiing in the east coast, but I think it's still a valid thing to test out!
Thanks for your nice comment and for watching!
In one of the curated reviews they were describing carving performance and in video they are hardly making skidded turns.
Agree, Ski Essentials reviews are good, Curated blows. I bought the Enforcer 93 years ago for western hard pack and ice but found it to be awesome in shallow chop and off piste variable terrain where I spend more time jumping off every bump or drop available. Finishing a turn and getting some pop is less important to me in 3D snow. I like the Enforcer’s balance of being stout enough to not get deflected but forgiving enough that I don’t have to think about what’s on my feet - just point and shoot. My $0.02.
No I love it! Great insight, thanks for sharing. I didn't like them, but I can see how others would enjoy them, especially how you described. I mostly just want to call out the ski shops and online reviews calling it an "all in one" ski. Because I definitely felt like it was lacking in areas. But don't let me yuck your yum, glad you're loving them!
on the one ski quiver thing, i currently im just on the line blade optic 96s for everything from park to pow. Im looking at some rossingol black ops 118s or mfree 114s for powder.
I always go a size up on skis because i ride skis with big tails. (im 5 10 and i usually go in the 180-185 range, id be in the 170s on flat tails, rearmounted ski.
I tried the new nordica unleasheds and they were simply unpleasant. they demanded good technique but gave you no reward for the technique. no energy out of your turns and just were cumbersome. I agree 100% with your nordica takes. Why have a twin tip ski if i cant smear and slide on it? the enforcer is like a beefed up twin tip but none of the upsides and all of the downsides.
if youre going to review more skis, id like you to talk about techniques that would pair well with the skis you review.
cheers
Thanks for the feedback, I'll try and implement this winter. And thanks for watching!
I have enforcer 93, I love charging them very hard on groomers, it is too heavy, makes it difficult to be nimble enough btw trees and tires me very quick, other than this, this is very good ski, I think everybody's expectation is all different.
Totally, and I think it's just me trying to give people the downsides like you pointed out, so they don't buy blindly and feel disappointment.
I ski the Enforcer 100 and it's like a fast car with stability control. I think your skiing style just doesn't suit it. I'm a strong skier but no where NEAR your ability level. I went from the Volkl Mantra M5s and these felt way more stable, easy turning. Having said that I think I would like to go with something a little more lively as my son is now a legit expert and I can't get the enforcers to move as fast as I like in the trees. What I really like about the enforcer is where I live in Central Oregon you the snow can change on a time depending on the wind. We get collections of powder, crud and ice and it saved my ass when it I got caught out on super slick ice or visa versa. It felt like it helped me correct myself and saved a fall. I think you just are skiing beyond it's target audience. In car terms it's like the difference between a track car and a fast touring car.
Love the channel. I am a fan of the enforcers and was thinking of your comments about middle aged guys loving this ski. What hit me was that most of us in that age group learned on the old traditional long narrow skis - these kind of remind me of those in terms of stability and the way they react. Now I disagree with you that these skis don’t have energy - they do if you really load them up. They are not a carving ski - they are great for east coast crud and are decent on groomers but if I want to “carve” I’m on my dobermann or thunderbirds for that. Next I want you to do a review on stockli laser ar, which everyone raves about but I found to be way overdamped without any feel (this will no doubt be an unpopular comment)!!
The latest Skiessentials comparison that included Enforcer 100s was a lot less positive about them. They called them outdated and basically said that since the Enforcers came out other companies have released newer skis that carve 99% as well while being way lighter and more versatile. In a different video Bob said he doesn't use his anymore.
I have a set of Enforcer 94s that I love, but only when I cycle commute every day and keep my fitness high. I actually found this video because I'm looking at skis like the QST 98 for days when I don't want to give it everything I have on every run.
Oh wow, I will check it out, I know they've said they watch this channel, so it's possible. And I loved the Qst98, it was one of my skis of the year! ruclips.net/video/lHq9KLNouTQ/видео.htmlsi=2u1hZDphTEsb7ZfO
Someday, someone is going to do ski rec videos for Midwest skiers.
haha
What's your opinion about Salomon Stance 84 and 90?
Haven't skied them yet, but they're top of my list to try this coming winter!
@Rickety Ski Reviews Elliot, was it specifically the Enforcer 100 that you thought sucked? I got the Enforcer 88, with the intention of having good edge hold in icy & generally hardpack Aussie conditions - and just generally going fast on groomers. didn't get to ski this southern hemisphere season, was a crappy season anyway. The 88s are WAY wider in the tip and tail than my old school Atomic ARC SL 203 (circa early 90s) that I used as an AM ski, sometimes in Pow, but mostly groomers and moguls. There isn't generally much decent pow in Australian resorts. I would get a more pow oriented ski if I was going on a Japan or Canada trip.
Yes, I can only speak to the Nordica Enforcer 100 I didn't try any other widths, but they felt flat and unresponsive. Not a defective ski or anything, they can certainly hold an edge and make a downhill platform but they don't give you any pop out of your turns when you're carving. Here's the full review: ruclips.net/video/-OqMOElIGuc/видео.htmlsi=XtCkSPnExrR1E97v
It could be that you like them, but I thought the enforcer 100's did not live up to the hype. Will have to try some different widths next time perhaps.
@@RicketySkiReviews that link points to the Volkl M6 Mantra review.
oh whoops here you go: ruclips.net/video/2saaleNUQj4/видео.htmlsi=ILM9oK89lIO1ziwo
I have been watching a lot of your stuff today and I am really appreciative of your candor here. The world needs more of this
Skied the enforcer 86(?) at Palisades and Alpine Meadows in 2022, I thought the same thing. Heavy, stable, good edge grip... but award winner? I have Kore 93 and had gen3 mantra... the old mantras were far superior IMO. The kores are far, far superior
No idea if you read old comments, but something I’ve noticed in your reviews is that your content is targeted at a very small group of skiers - true experts, especially those with a racing background. I really enjoy your content, and always appreciate hearing informed opinion, but after watching a bunch of your reviews, felt like maybe you’d appreciate some constructive criticism/questions.
Anyways here it is: how do you define an intermediate? And do you think most people you put in that category would agree with that assessment? And of the people watching review videos to figure out which ski to buy, do you think that the majority would disagree with your assessment?
My gut instinct is to that last question is yes, since if I had to guess, your definition of intermediates includes the “I ski lots of double black diamond crowd”. But I think it helps explain the distance in how you feel/talk about the ski with relation to how other reviewers talk about it. My wholly subjective opinion is that most people watching ski reviews aren’t even skiers you would consider advanced, and don’t understand drawbacks to some features you really like, like the ability to get energy from the tails in the turn.
I personally don’t particularly enjoy the enforcers for a very similar reason to you: it’s got a weak tail, especially for a charger. But it’s that very characteristic that makes it one of the top skis I tell people about when they want baby’s first charger, or are just looking for a heavy damp ski that’s also not a burden when skiing poorly. Having a weak tail makes it so much more accessible than something like an m6, while retaining a good top end which makes it such a safe recommendation - it eliminates some of the “know thyself” nature of picking a good ski.
Anyways, just my 2c - it’s possible (and maybe probable) what I said is super self evident, but on the off chance it isn’t and you haven’t thought about it, might give you something to mull over. Love the videos, and will definitely enjoy watching more =)
Bob is like 6ft 3
Hooky tails on these sent me cartwheeling. Love Volkl Mantra/Katana instead.
Woah, i wonder if they needed a detune? (Tho most modern skis don't need that anymore)
Hi- I've watch some of your reviews and to some extent this review has a few things I disagree with, and I think it stems from what you value in a ski. I'm not exactly the biggest fan of this ski as well, but I think you might be missing the point of it a bit. (don't want to sound rude sorry) This ski isn't supposed to be an energetic, responsive carver, or light and playful through bumps. It weighs 2100-2200 grams, and is one of the heaviest skis in its category. This ski is made for someone who wants a ski that feels stable at high speeds in bad conditions, on groomers or off-trail. I've watched a few of your other videos, and noticed that a lot of your carving is at more moderate speeds, maybe on softer snow. These ski essentials reviewers are some of the best/most aggressive skiers I've ever seen, and are absolutely flying down the hill. At high speeds, a "poppy" energetic ski might throw you out of the turn a little, while the enforcers might return a more appropriate energy at those speeds, even if it feels lacking at more moderate ones. I definitely agree that the ski essentials reviews are overly positive to the point of making them less helpful, and also would agree that this ski isn't a great choice for most of the people you see on it.
That's a fair point, Here's some inside info: We're pretty new to videoing while skiing, so alot of the skiing you see is videoed with someone following, so we always tend to dial back the speed, so that the camera man can follow smoothly while trying to keep the person in frame (typically they have to pizza and stay in the middle of the lane).
So alot of the skiing you're seeing is altered to make sure the cameraman can follow safely and keep me in frame (or when I record zach it's the other way around). That being said, I come from Ski Racing In Vermont and NH USSA leagues, and Raced in College, and I can tell you these skis don't improve much with speed in my opinion, and if you have to go so fast that your momentum can compensate for an unresponsive ski, then the ski probably has alot of weak points.
Hope that helps, if nothing else maybe you found some of that info insightful.
Thanks for watching and thanks for your polite comment!
@@RicketySkiReviews That's a fair point, I mean I would also never buy a pair of enforcers. I also didn't mean to insult your skiing, you totally shred.
No worries, no offense taken! Thanks for taking the time to watch my content. I appreciate it. @@awqardduck5692
Don't stop being snarky... I like it. It's critical thinking-- objective and refreshing in this day where everyone's either trying to sell you something or trying not to offend someone. F^*# it. Speak the truth. Look-- not only do people have different skiing styles, but ski manufacturers simply make diiferent feeling skis. IMO, from what I've seen, Volkl and Blizzard tend to make slightly heavier, damper skis. And at least when I owned the 2014 Brahma, it was a stable, quick ski but... I wouldn't call it springy, poppy, or playful. Maybe it was the 2 sheets of metal that weighed it down, but I've heard Atomics have the same sort of feel as my 2016 Faction Prodigys albeit with metal. I had the 2012 Theory which had that playful feel w/o metal. I like a playful ski especially in bumps where if the ski doesn't have spring, they tend to feel too damp and heavy. And in bumps and short, technical turns, the last thing you want is to have to unweight aggressively. The ski's supposed to do that, not your upper body. But it can't if it doesn't have camber or is too damp. Interestingly, with those 2016 Prodigys, you can definitely load up the tail in longer turns and get a ton of spring even w/o metal. But today's Prodigy 2.0 doesn't have any hardwood, so I'd be leary of getting the new model. I really think that 88TI with its playful feel would one up my skis b/c they'll feel similar but probably perform better on harder snow and the narrower waist a bit quicker in bumps. And realistically, for the few powder days we see on the EC, I think that 88TI would be good enough... especially since after a few hours it's pretty cut up anyway and I'm sure those things will blast through that. I would take issue with bump skiers wanting a `surfy' ski. No. You want a knife where you can cut quick pivoting edge sets for control. Awesome reviews!
Thanks so much for your nice comment! I totally agree, I do think too that there are some really nice skis out there that do a good job balancing both, so it's weird when people excuse skis that can't carve at all. If that's what you like I was pretty impressed with the K2 Mindbenders. I have never owned K2's and had kind of written them off, but was pleasantly surprised. Once they lock into the turn they really kind of railroad through aggressively.. Thanks for your comment and for watching!
@@RicketySkiReviews Thanks but I'm still leaning toward the 88TI. It has the same specs as the Brahma but more of a crud busting tip and lighter. And since the Maverick replaced the Vanatge which replaced the Theory, logic would imply all 3 lines share similar characteristics. Still curious about your thoughts on the Rustler 9 though when you get a chance.
Oh totally! I bought the 88Ti's myself, just thinking of other things to compare to. Sometimes the shops will let you use x number of rentals towards your purchase. But yeah I actually bought the 88ti's myself which is the best endorsement I can give haha.
@@RicketySkiReviews Yeah-- definitely not averse to trying different brands. I bought those Factions having never heard of the company. It was just I came back from that trip to the Alps and couldn't believe a ski 96 under foot could be so snappy and precise. Guess I also figured if they were good enough for Candide, they're good enough for the rest of us lol. Like I said though, I doubt the new ones ski the same having no hardwood or metal in them.
Like in love, I can't put word on my feeling. I'll never be a good ski reviewer 😅 those Nordica are pure brute. A lot of people gonna hate me but the vast majority of skier own too stiff and expert skis for their ability.
I think you're pretty on the money actually
Since it wasn't an Atomic Maverick, I didn't think you'd like this ski. Just so weird when out West people love the 110, 104, etc. and you think it's a bad ski. I know of two people who legit bought brand new back-ups of those respective skis (one the 110, the other 104), since word was they would change for 2024-2025.
You speak so broadly on what is or isn't a good ski, that after watching a few of these, I think you just might like one specific style of ski/way to ski. That's totally fine, but for a channel just making fun of other reviews... it'd be easy to turn this around on you.
I think there's a reason the Enforcer line has a cult following, because it's a great stable damp ski that can carve.
On demo day I did demo a Maverick 100. Liked it, but found the limit fast. Possibly an East vs West thing. I want my skis to do it all. Not just carve smooth groomers. I think you need to branch out to different types of skiing and terrain. Just is weird. I love this ski, as many do who are elite and advanced skiers in Utah.
There are so many other reviews and other skis I like
One thing that the team at ski essentials do really well is identify their preferences and apply that to their reviews. You callout the Fisher Ranger line a lot. IMO that’s unequivocally an intermediate ski. I made the mistake of buying a pair and now I own nothing but enforcers (104 free, 104 unlimited, 110 free). The thing that bothers me, and others, about this review is that you just dog on the ski without really acknowledging your capabilities or style all that well. “Not for me” doesn’t quite get the job done. Let’s be honest, Jeff carves harder backside than you do frontside (no offense). If you really want to give an honest review a wide range of skis, you have to have the ability to drive any of them the way they were meant to be driven. I don’t have strong opinions on curated but it comes across as if you’re doing the same thing you’re accusing them of… judging a ski you aren’t able to extract the maximal value from. If your review were about how too many intermediates are on enforcer 100s, I might agree with you. P.s. you should definitely try the unleashed or unlimited lines if you haven’t already.
I carefully vet my reviewers. Basically, i need to see you ski. Is there a video you can link me to that shows your skiing? Thanks!
Plenty of footage on the channel, but here's a recent video from this summer:
It's a 79mm in the slushy summer snow in OR, so not Ideal, but like I said, very recent.
ruclips.net/video/JEh6nPAAHgY/видео.htmlsi=RtewWRZS4b5GTDKw&t=22
Thanks for watching
@@RicketySkiReviews Thanks from Montana. Very appreciated.
Cheers from Idaho!
@RicketySkiReviews We ski Lost Trail Powder Mountain which is half in Idaho half in Montana. So we are kind of neighbors! We are getting psyched for opening day with quite a bit of snow today. Might see you out there this season.
Oh, Right on!
I mean Enforcers are especially underwhelming for people who knows how to edge, carve and make dynamic turns in general i.e. people with ski racing background. To paraphrase Winston Churchill, it’s a modest ski with much to be modest about.
Lol!
I've never seen any of these ski review "experts" take a pair of skis on runs that experts ski, namely steep mogul fields. 90% of what they ski is fresh groomers, the rest is some occasional powder and crud, stuff that pretty much any advanced intermediate can ski.
You won't get snap at the end of a turn on runs that are FLAT and not on a steep . But the top ripping skiers will be ripping so fast like GS SKIERS on steep as well 😂
If your on the tails you're off balanced at the end off a turn
Watch the INTERSCHOOL ski instructors.
And ski length is another comes with expert level and where one is skiing
Europe alps or BC Canada or small Stowe or Australia
Skis are expensive yes one can get a stockli or head or Fischer semi race bit wider ski between slalom and gs as a extra groomer day ski
If you ski and travel and work on mountain . But 90% of the time 100mm ski can do everything . K2 FACTION OR LINE BLACKCROWS new ROSSI 110MM beefier skies
When I look at old skis heavier K2 with 98mm 180cm and no early rise or tail rise that's like a 190cm with same weight and same contact points longer because of the ELF show effect
I seen some youtubers go short and looks silly and there skiing goes backwards on a 170cm ROCKERED ELF SHOE
Rise n ALPINE is on Nordica he skies Whistler and longer lengths because it's Whistler .
RISE AND ALPINE
ps most of your recommendations are spot on
tho 179cm at KICKING HORSE bit short but doable mine are 179cm beefy K2 SETH SKIS sable stiffer and that era was no ROCKER so sit on the snow like a 188cm
more float 185cm stability and charging factor comes down to where one skis
my opinion is have your eye on 3 types of skis
K2 are great prices if want a BLACKCROWS HYPE they sell out so rare on sale so look to LINE BLADE OPTIC love to try - FACTION - MOMENT - NEW ROSSI SENDER FREE
I bet ROSSI do a 100mm SENDER FREE
SKI COMPANIES do to many ski's
Thanks for your insightful comment and thanks for watching! I like a 176 for trees and groomers and a 182 for powder skis, but that's just my personal preference and what I like for turn shape etc.
We have seen Bob and Jeff ski. Where are your videos? You have to have some height and weight to bend these. I have a pair of Enforcer 88's 180 cm that I love
Sure, this is from last month at Mt Hood: ruclips.net/video/85dRP7FtgWA/видео.html
I'm certainly a bigger dude, but I can appreciate these skis maybe just didn't match up with what I prioritize. Thanks for watching!
Your comment was featured in our most recent video!
Bob is a big dude at 6’3” 225, but Jeff is not at 5’9” 150-160.
Curated will price match any site like Evo and tipping the expert is optional, so that stuff is untrue
Didn't realize this, when I was shopping this spring I didn't see any competitive pricing, but that makes sense I suppose. It sounds like the company buys in bulks, fulfills, and negotiates with the manufacturer for better pricing (though Idk, doesn't every online seller do this?) Do you ever have incentives to sell a certain ski if it's got a high inventory in the warehouse or anything similar?
@@RicketySkiReviews we never have any incentive to sell one ski over another. Curated gets the skis wholesale through relationships with manufacturers, as any site would. I get access to the standard industry demo days too.
That said, commissions are based on the value of what you sell (hard goods and soft goods have slightly different rates). You may think that means you push more expensive skis, but the average low-information buyer looking for help is usually VERY price sensitive. I get people looking for full setups for like 250 bucks. Like I commented before, the vast majority of my sales are selling previous model-year gear and beating someone's price expectations for a setup.
The assumption by many is that Curated must mark up the skis to provide the expert help, but in reality they are just betting on the volume that comes with providing help on these high dollar-value purchases. Experts who spend full-time effort on Curated can make a full-time living off the ~10% commission as well as some bonuses for copy writing and content production.
I spend my time on the platform servicing friends and past customers (since I can price match and they appreciate my input). This activity maintains my industry status for events and discounts.
he drops his inside hand - that puts weight back on tails end of the turn
THINK THE 104MM get more beefy than 100mm
ruclips.net/video/Ub9DX5emmlc/видео.html
like I said ski companies make to many skis - I get confused
Yes and no. It may put some weight on, but you can push off from the ski, without sacrificing your center of balance. Alot of times people only get away with these weird habits, because they use momentum to hide their lack of balance/ body position. Thanks for the recommendation. Love seeing your comments!
what about enforcer 88
skis reviews are full of garbage fluff a ton of the time. it's annoying. it's why I end up paying for blister to get atleast some consistency in their reviews.
It's tough out here. Thanks for the nice comment and thanks for watching!
I understand your review. You are not from the east coast and you do not understand what these skis are for.
As the proud owner of some 104 free's which I ski in NE almost exclusively, let me bend you ear about something.
These skis offer a different way to ski through the trees that doesn't require wildly diving from ski to ski and massive leg work.
You need to stand more over the top and instead of moving the skis from side to side, you must ski them from side to side (downhill, just get your feet in a good position under your hips and step over the edge).
There is no cheating with these skis, let me tell you. If you try to "pull" the skis across the fall line, you will get dumped and bucked, but if you wait and use your and the skis momentum, they are truly divine.
What you've told me is something I can confirm, these are skis for experts only. Intermediate will get tired quickly and gain no advantages. 😊
Full disclosure, the 90s skis aren't as good. Smaller platform just doesn't work the same and the weight really bites into the ground (which you don't always want on ice).
Unlimited has no metal and just isn't the same ski.
BUT, you also kinda hated on the storm rider, so I think you just have a style that cannot be adjusted for conditions or skis.
Nothing wrong with that...
These skis are heaven for carving until it gets a bit too solidly icy (which we get by 3pm here regularly) then they start getting bounced and heavy bouncing skis aren't great on the knees.
Did you just compare the enforcers to a race ski? GTFO with that nonsense.
Friends don't let friends buy mid 90's skis for carving....
The free has a massive edge wall. So, perhaps that's the difference. I never really considered the pure regular enforcer.
Far too many people are happy with these skis for you to just dismiss the buyers as being Fools. (No hate here... just some feedback.) I think you did a good job of highlighting exactly why the folks at Ski Essentials do such a great job. There are always tradeoffs from one ski to another. You prioritize having big energy in the bottom of your turn. That's a very specific ask of a ski. This ski does not work for you, but the shape and construction work well for a lot of people. You seem to be trying pretty hard to convince people that these skis won't work for them. Not sure why. What skis do you like? Which other new skis best suit your style this season.
Watch the Ski Essentials Ski Comparison videos where they take deep dives into a full category of 15-20 skis and give pros and cons on every ski they feature. They never tell you what to buy. They offer pros and cons to every ski and say that there are perfect skis out there for every skier. If you want to talk about skis on the internet just because it's a hobby, great. I wish you well. Maybe back off of the name calling and the pure criticism. You just need a different ski than this one. Maybe go watch the comparison videos on SkiEssentials.com to help you make the best choice...
I think people can like whatever ski makes them happy. But the majority of other ski review channels are talking only about the skis perks, rather than it's drawbacks (because they also sell that ski) so I want to make sure people who are buying just understand the skis drawbacks and weaknesses (which even my favorite skis have) You should check out my more recent commentary on this ski which I think is a bit more even keeled in this regard: I address this in the first 2 minutes here: ruclips.net/video/V7m63ZJR_0w/видео.htmlsi=AK2RjiVpPSJU-4jN
And talk about the skis more here: ruclips.net/video/xLPjhjbM0Lo/видео.htmlsi=ncHGroLBuRiej_R0
That all being said, I don't think this ski carves very well, but if you like it more power to you! I think it rewards a very specific style of skier and at the very least I think that people should test them before buying them.
I have no incentive for people to buy one ski over another, I just want consumers to know that the ski has some serious drawbacks for most skiing styles (as do other skis!) before they run out and buy them. Ski Essentials, while I love them, do in fact sell these skis, so your argument doesn't make much sense, what do you think their incentives are?
Thanks for watching.
@@RicketySkiReviews All good man. I appreciate that you put effort into doing things like this. It's always good to hear other people's experiences on a ski before I decide to buy. I agree with a point you made- don't fully trust any single source of information. But also, don't just dismiss a site like skiessentials because they have something to gain if you buy from them. Always do your own research. Choose for yourself which skis are best for you. Not all "popular" skis work for all people. Most importantly, let it snow...
Cheers to that! @@raysoutsideplace
Doesn't take any expert insight to figure out that Curated is trash, but it's not there for anyone who knows anything.
As for the ski essentials reviews, you get more info by watching their comparison videos where they go across a smattering of skis in a certain style/class. It's there that you see where they're emphasizing differences and superlatives. The enforcer line is mostly a multi tool line... it's a jack of all trades, aces of none. If you're saying it's a ten or nine of all trades...ok, nice semantics, but I hardly see how that's worth 30min. You just seem to be picking nits for people who are already good to go.
Yes, Stockli has some superior qualities...in pretty much all areas when you're talking about comparisons to same-width Stormrider. Not sure how that's a valuable insight. Stormrider are pretty impressive in that segment.
Anyway, most of the stuff you're pointing out is pretty obvious to anyone who's skied for a couple seasons or on a couple skis. In the multi-ski comparisons, they talk at length about tail grab-release, turn linking, smeariness, pop, stability at speed, gitteriness, etc. and point back and forth to all the skis to make distinctions. Their single ski reviews are only misleading because they're lacking immediate comparisons.
aight
The ski you enjoy riding is highly subjective. Why let ANYONE try to tell which ski you will like, even this guy?
I mean, it's just like my opinion man
And your opinion on the qualities of a ski is mostly relevant to you and what you like riding. People need to demo, not get caught believing they’re gonna like a ski because another good skier liked it.
@@boardhead6720 I mean you can still give people baseline insight, There are nearly 100 different ski models out there, and not everyone gets the opportunity to test all of them. I do agree that people should demo themselves though. I recommend it in several videos. This insight is just to help people narrow it down, and what to look for based on what they like. Thanks for watching though.
I did appreciate the times in your video when you are talking about your subjective experienced characteristics in a ski (which will vary from one skier to another) But when you start to talk about a ski being good or bad or worse sucks as if anyone has that objective authority, then you’re not being any more helpful than even Curated. And you are ironically being the same thing you think you’re speaking against.
Other than your early comments on Curated, I don’t agree with your Enforcer 100 review at all. I watched some videos of your skiing to get a better idea of where your coming from. To be fair, you did say your style of skiing is different than Bob’s and it certainly is. But… in my opinion, you don’t appear to have the carving skills of Bob (a mogul expert) or the carving skills of Jeff (a park expert). You look to be around the same age as them, but athletically, you do not appear to be even close to the shape they are in, so there is that…
Lol