Love these reviews. Was torn between these and the Justis. Ended up with the Justis.. 6'1 200lbs advanced end of intermediate in the PNW. Just need more snow now! Thanks for all the content.
I just bought these and loved them for BC interior skiing as my everyday all mountain ski. I had 2023 Mirus Cor in 173 but they we a bit short so am going to order the 178s as a nice compliment to the long radius of the Serpos. I’ll put Look Pivot Forzas on them Jeff!
Great Review. I test drove the Serpo last year on the groomers and LOVED it! Would you recommend the 174cm or 180cm? I'm 173cm tall and weigh 180 #. What's the advantage/disadvantage to either length?
I'd say 174 for your stats. The longer ski will be smoother and more stable in longer turns and at speed. How often are you operating in this application? The 173 will be more useful for a greater percentage of the time, as in reality, we normally are found making short to medium radius turns at a variety of speeds. Additionally, the 174 will be a more fun option in bumps, trees, or any technical zones.
Great review! I am really appealed by its properties. Skied the Orb last year and loved it. How would you compare them? Also, it seems the Serpo doesn't have that much camber. How do you think that influences its capabilites? Thanks!
The Orb has a lot of camber and a long turn radius. Add the longer metal frame to the equation and the Orb certainly has more of a front side and carving influence. With a shorter arc and shorter metal, the Serpo also gets more rocker to help out when the snow gets soft and the terrain gets interesting. This makes Serpo quite a bit more versatile, but not quite as hard charging or aggressive on firm and hard snow.
Hey, really appreciate the reviews. Looking for a replacement to my 2016 Kendo’s. Kendos were great, and I really loved the edge grip and control/precision I felt on the frontside, but always required a ton of input and didn’t love them in the bumps. Thinking Serpo/Vertis/Riptstick 88, and curious to see what your thoughts are on how the Serpo/vertis differ, and how they compare to a stiffer/heavier kendo from 2016. 5’9” 160 lb advanced level skier on the east coast. Most of time spent frontside on groomers/bumps. Thanks guys.
There's a lot more energy in all three skis versus your outgoing Kendo. Serpo is the only one of that group with metal in it, so it does have a leg up when it comes to dampness and power. Vertis has the shortest turn radius at 15 meters, so that ski really likes to turn. Ripstick is light, agile, and incredibly rewarding. While the shovels are on the softer side, that makes them a lot of fun in the bumps and trees. If you're mostly on frontside groomers and bumps, the Serpo is the closest to your old Kendo and the Vertis is the most different. The Ripstick lies in the middle, and I generally feel like that's a good way to look at it. I'd lean to the Ripstick for a good mix of all of your desired attributes. Probably 172 in that ski. Have fun! SE
I’m thinking about these vs the 2024 Rustler 9. I’m 6’4” about 195 lbs, intermediate to advancing skier. I currently have 2022 Mantra M6, but they’re probably too much ski for me at 184cm. I like the lack of chatter at speed of the Mantras, but they’re really heavy. As I’m moving into bump and tree skiing I’d like something a bit more manageable. Anyway, the Serpo and the Rustler 9 seem to appeal to me from a primarily on piste ski with some lightness to make quick turns on off piste terrain. Thanks!
You're in the right zone, as both of these skis are still very complete while being friendlier than the Mantra. The Rustler is more of the bump and tree option while the Serpo excels in energetic turns on groomers. They can each do the other's strengths as well, just not as well.
I was on a stance 80 the last 2 seasons and really enjoyed it. I would say that I am an intermediate skier who can ski all difficulty of pistes ( blue, red, black runs in austria). I love the stance 80 for it's playful nature, but when carving at higher speeds the ski starts to feel a bit unstable to me. I was thinking about the Black Crows Serpo as a similiar type of ski, which also enables me do a lot of different things on the mountain and might feel a bit more stable. I assume the serpo would be something that challenges me a bit more than the stance 80 and be a good step up that is also more capable off piste. Is it a ski that could make sense for me?
This makes a lot of sense. The Serpo has fantastic energy and carving power and is still very versatile. The ski is definitely a step up, maybe two, but if you're up for a stiffer ski with more power, this is going to be a lot of fun for you!
Hello! Looking for a easy going complement to my Deacon 84s. Was considering the QST 98 but feel like I would be waiting for very specific conditions to use them. I am more on trail but want something that can be used interchangeably with the Deacons depending on my mood or conditions. Torn between the Serpo and Camox. Also want that one ski to take out west once a year. Is there too much overlap between the Deacon and Serpo for this application?
I think the Serpo and Deacon are different enough, especially if you're looking to use it somewhat interchangeably. And yes, out west, unless it snows a ton, the Serpo will be a very useful ski. QST is more different for sure, but I'd put Camox with the QST rather than the Serpo. It doesn't sound like you're looking to stray too far from front side application, and to me, that puts Serpo above the other skis.
I'd say 186 in that ski. It's not particularly stiff or demanding, so unless you want the shorter turn radius of the 180 or are looking for a quicker and more maneuverable ski, I think 186 is great.
Hi, thanks for your great videos and reviews! I have been skiing on blizzard bonafide 179 cm and 97 cm wide since the model launched . I like them but now I ski more with my kids and I feel sometimes that the bonafide requires more speed to get the most out of them. I am an advanced experienced skier and I like to charge and carv in high speed, mostly in the pist with some of trail runs here and there but I would also like to sometimes be able to slow it down a bit and still enjoy the ski. I would also like the ski to be more playful than the old bonafide. Would serpo be a good switch for me or do you recommend something else?
Serpo is great, but you're still in a similar category in terms of speedy carvers--this is lighter and with less metal, so you are taking the top gear down a bit. I'd also check out the Blizzard Rustler 9--this is more of a natural progression within the Blizzard line to move from their top-tier speedster to a more playful freeride ski. Still has some chops, but certainly a more mobile shape and style.
Crazy helpful reciews! Debating heavily on getting this Ski as my one quiver Ski for all year long. Skiing mostly in Europe and groomers but wanna get much more into offpiste. Debating between the Serpo, Stormrider 95 or a little more focused on groomers with the Montero AX. I like to go very fast but also occasionally go for a short to middle range carving swings. I dont wanna lose much performance on the groomers but also wanna be happy off piste all trip long if the European conditions allow it. To what ski would u tend to ? Or is there any other ski i am overlooking ? 😅
I'd lean to the more groomer focused Montero AX. I think this ski has a sneaky set of versatility to it and is incredibly rewarding on smooth and firm surfaces. Unless you run into deep powder, you should be all set. Those other skis aren't perfect in powder either.
It's all relative when it comes to demand, and width isn't everything. There are many narrow skis out there that are a lot more demanding versus the Serpo, as it's metal-free in the tips and tails to make it a bit friendlier in those short to mid-range turns. You can certainly make it difficult if you want, but this ski operates quite well in the middle range of turn shapes and styles.
Super informative! Quick question, at 5’9” and 160 lbs, skiing fairly aggressively. Looking to use these mostly on groomers but also would like to get off piste with some bumps and chutes. Should I opt for 180 vs. 174?
If I'm on the east coast and mostly sticking to groomers, I think the Serpo makes more sense. That said, the Justis is a very competent ski, it's just heavier and stiffer than the Serpo, so it takes more work to get the same carving and on-piste capabilities.
The Serpo and Declivity are a lot more alike than the Rustler 9, which is an outlier of this grouping, mainly due to the rocker profile and taper shape. Declivity is very quiet and smooth, making the energy appear just under the surface. The Serpo's energy is more overt--it's such an incredible pop in the ski with amazing tail rebound. I'd put the Declivity in the middle of the three, but is a lot closer to the Serpo than the Rustler.
Hi SE, how would you compare the Serpo to the Elan Ripstick 96 Black? I’m a European Advanced (agressive) skier looking for a playful pair of skis for mostly groomer use. I’m 173cm and weigh about 70kg. Thanks a lot!!
First off, love them both. The Serpo has a bit more pep in its step than the Ripstick, especially in the mid-range of turn shapes and styles. I find the Ripstick to be more versatile--better in bumps and trees while the Serpo is better suited to groomed snow and smooth surfaces--in this realm you can fully take advantage of the energy of the ski. If you're looking for mostly groomer use, I'd lean to the Serpo.
I have old Mantras from 2006 that I still enjoy. Would you recommend getting the Mirus Cor as a complement to the Mantras or getting the Serpos as a one ski quicker and getting rid of the old Mantras. How do the Serpos compare to the old Mantras?
I think if you get the Serpo, you'll quickly forget about the Mantra. The energy is top end and it's still pretty darn stable, although the 2006 Mantra is a beast. I love the quickness and precision of the Serpo and it is pretty versatile as well. Mirus Cor is so unique--it's hard to call it a one-ski quiver, you're better off with the Serpo as one, and I think there's something to be said for modern technology and you will find the Mantra to feel a bit dull after skiing either Serpo or the Mirus Cor.
I have the prior version of the QST 92. How would you compare these two skis? I also have the Divus in a 172. I’m 5’9” and I felt it was a bit short. You think the 180 Serpo would be better?
The Serpo has more of an on-trail personality with fantastic energy and rebound coming out of the turn. QST is perfectly fine in this arena, but in the versatility department, the QST really shines. I think if you are more adventurous and in search of powder, bumps, and trees, the QST is more sensible, but for groomer performance and more of an on-trail carver, the Serpo is one of the best at this width. I'd think the Serpo in the 174 would be good--this ski is wider and a bit heftier than the Divus.
How would you compare them to Stormriders? I know the SR is damper and precise. What about edge hold? If that’s the only difference then how about compared to the QST? Does it have more edge hold?
I'd say the Serpo has better edge hold. I found that ski to be incredibly rewarding and satisfying in an energetic carved turn. Both have better grip than QST, but when it comes to softer snow and more versatility, it's QST all day.
Hi Jeff, I'm 6"1, 170lbs. An intermediate to advanced skier. I like 70% on-piste and 30% off-piste when there's some powder. I love to ride on a stable, and good grip ski. Would you recommend serpo 180 or 186? I also considered enforcer 88/94, or steadfast 85 (because I tested it) thanks!
West Coast Intermediate to Advanced Skiier. 170 cm Tall. 165 lbs. Stuck between 168 and 174. Currently ski on 176's but they sometimes feel cumbersome in trees and crud. Thoughts?
Hi, thanks for the review! Im strongly considering these as my first skis, Im strong intermediate/advanced and am looking for all mountain skis to be used mainly for carving on groomers (I ski in Europe) but also a bit off piste and occasionally some powder. I like to go really fast and am a bit worried since they’re so light, you think they hold up well at high speeds? Also I’m 180cm and weigh about 70kg would you recommend the 174 size?
Directional refers to the fact that it's not a twin tip and the mount point is generally farther back in the ski to line up with the camber profile. They're pretty darn stable at speed, especially in a carved turn. I'd go 174 in that ski.
Looking to pick these up, but unsure what length I should go with. I'm 5'8, 135 lbs and would consider myself an advanced intermediate, stay mostly on groomers today but trying to get to like 70/30 on groomers vs off piste/trees. Any thoughts? I'm between the 168 and 174s
Hey SE! Looking to upgrade a 2 ski quiver out west. I picked up the Ripstick 106 Black in 180cm from you guys not long ago (which I love) and would like to upgrade my QST 92s (2022) in 177 with something a bit more stable/damp at speed, w/ better edge grip/power as my go to when it hasn't snowed in several days for frontside groomers. Would also like to power through cut up snow a bit better. For a directional skier, would you say the Serpo is a good 'upgrade'? Lastly, what size would you recommend (5'10/173 lbs.)? Appreciate the help!
Love the Serpo! This will be a better frontside ski than the QST 92, and while you'll lose a bit of ease of use, the high end of the Serpo is more appropriate for speed, power, and energy. I'd go with the 180 in that ski if you're looking for greater stability.
Fit first--hard to say what boot is best for a ski. Normally, if you're a skilled skier and are interested in driving a high-performance and energetic ski like this, flex range starts at 110 and goes up to 130.
Not great. They're pretty sharp and precise with a stiff flex especially underfoot. Captis or Camox within Black Crows line do a better job of mixing park, jumps, and all-mountain skiing than the more directional Serpo.
Hello, how would the serpo compare to Ripstick 96 black for all mountain use…mix of groomers, soft snow and off piste mostly east coast with the occasional trip out west ?
There's more kick out of the carve of the Serpo, and that gives it a more engaging on-trail and carving performance. The Ripstick is more versatile, and especially in soft snow. Is the boost in that realm worth a slight downgrade in on-piste performance to you and for what you do most of the time? If I'm mostly east with occasional west, I'm leaning to the Serpo.
@@sstoican1It's right there. The Sender has a flatter tail than the other two, and that allows it to stay engaged in the turn longer, making for a smoother overall feel. It's not as dynamic or agile as a result, but there is a different feel when it comes to letting them run.
Pretty similar, even with a bit of a width difference. The K2 has a stronger and more powerful finish to the turn while the Serpo's is more poppy. You can rip more, shorter turns in succession on the Serpo while the K2 likes to be rolled a bit more.
Interested in buying these, how long have they been the same construction? Gonna try to snag some past year pair as long as the ski is structurally the same
im pretty good skier ,90 % offpist , but wanna buy all terrain skis, im ,5'9 187lbs ,, what size serpo should i take 174/180 have old Atris in 184cm and qst 106 in 181
They don't hold up quite as well in the trash as something like the Enforcer 94, but they do just fine. Since the metal isn't full length or width, you will lose a bit in terms of power and stability, but that might be worth the tradeoff in which you're gaining lighter weight and energy on a smoother groomer.
@@SkiEssentials all 3 of the Black Crows in that range (vertis, minus cor and serpo) are intriguing. I ski stockli laser ax 183 and j masterblaster 187 currently. All the black crows feel like they could be fun in the middle
It's all about preference--there is no hard and fast rule. Generally, head high or a bit lower is a good place to start, and then you can go up or down depending on how aggressive you ski or how long you prefer your turns to be.
The Serpo is a lot more reactive and stable when it comes to carving clean turns. The Captis is more playful, and for most skiers, more versatile. The twin tip shape is great for creative skiing in a variety of conditions and terrain. Serpo is more at home on the groomers and in a carved turn.
The Serpo is friendlier and more accessible. You're losing a bit out of the top end when it comes to power and stability, but the Serpo is more versatile with a more energetic tail. Most skiers will have more fun on the Serpo, but if you're into top-shelf precision and power, it's hard to top the Mantra.
Looking at the serpo for my one ski to use all season. The 2023 Serpo is half the price at nerby stores. Would you say the 2024 is worth paying double? Thanks!
Serpo has a snappier feel, especially in the tail. The Camox has a longer turn radius and more of a twin tip shape, so you're not getting quite the same reaction and pop out of the ski. That said, the Camox is a lot more amenable to trees, bumps, softer snow, and creativity while the Serpo is more locked in to on-piste performance with moderate versatility.
Serpo's H-shaped metal and squared-off tail make it a very precise and strong ski in a carved turn. I love the energy and pop out of the Serpo. That said, the Captis is more playful and fun and versatile overall, especially if you bring freestyle and park into the discussion.
Love these reviews. Was torn between these and the Justis. Ended up with the Justis.. 6'1 200lbs advanced end of intermediate in the PNW. Just need more snow now! Thanks for all the content.
Have fun, and yes to snow!
Got a pair of serpos.. love them so far!!
I just bought these and loved them for BC interior skiing as my everyday all mountain ski. I had 2023 Mirus Cor in 173 but they we a bit short so am going to order the 178s as a nice compliment to the long radius of the Serpos. I’ll put Look Pivot Forzas on them Jeff!
Just curious what's your height? Since you found 173 short. Thinking of getting some as well. Thnx
@@jakubbedrich5536 Hi! I’m 5’11. Highly recommend - so much fun.
Great Review. I test drove the Serpo last year on the groomers and LOVED it! Would you recommend the 174cm or 180cm? I'm 173cm tall and weigh 180 #. What's the advantage/disadvantage to either length?
I'd say 174 for your stats. The longer ski will be smoother and more stable in longer turns and at speed. How often are you operating in this application? The 173 will be more useful for a greater percentage of the time, as in reality, we normally are found making short to medium radius turns at a variety of speeds. Additionally, the 174 will be a more fun option in bumps, trees, or any technical zones.
Great review! I am really appealed by its properties. Skied the Orb last year and loved it. How would you compare them?
Also, it seems the Serpo doesn't have that much camber. How do you think that influences its capabilites? Thanks!
The Orb has a lot of camber and a long turn radius. Add the longer metal frame to the equation and the Orb certainly has more of a front side and carving influence. With a shorter arc and shorter metal, the Serpo also gets more rocker to help out when the snow gets soft and the terrain gets interesting. This makes Serpo quite a bit more versatile, but not quite as hard charging or aggressive on firm and hard snow.
Hey, really appreciate the reviews. Looking for a replacement to my 2016 Kendo’s. Kendos were great, and I really loved the edge grip and control/precision I felt on the frontside, but always required a ton of input and didn’t love them in the bumps. Thinking Serpo/Vertis/Riptstick 88, and curious to see what your thoughts are on how the Serpo/vertis differ, and how they compare to a stiffer/heavier kendo from 2016. 5’9” 160 lb advanced level skier on the east coast. Most of time spent frontside on groomers/bumps. Thanks guys.
There's a lot more energy in all three skis versus your outgoing Kendo. Serpo is the only one of that group with metal in it, so it does have a leg up when it comes to dampness and power. Vertis has the shortest turn radius at 15 meters, so that ski really likes to turn. Ripstick is light, agile, and incredibly rewarding. While the shovels are on the softer side, that makes them a lot of fun in the bumps and trees. If you're mostly on frontside groomers and bumps, the Serpo is the closest to your old Kendo and the Vertis is the most different. The Ripstick lies in the middle, and I generally feel like that's a good way to look at it. I'd lean to the Ripstick for a good mix of all of your desired attributes. Probably 172 in that ski. Have fun!
SE
Appreciate it
I’m thinking about these vs the 2024 Rustler 9. I’m 6’4” about 195 lbs, intermediate to advancing skier. I currently have 2022 Mantra M6, but they’re probably too much ski for me at 184cm. I like the lack of chatter at speed of the Mantras, but they’re really heavy. As I’m moving into bump and tree skiing I’d like something a bit more manageable.
Anyway, the Serpo and the Rustler 9 seem to appeal to me from a primarily on piste ski with some lightness to make quick turns on off piste terrain. Thanks!
You're in the right zone, as both of these skis are still very complete while being friendlier than the Mantra. The Rustler is more of the bump and tree option while the Serpo excels in energetic turns on groomers. They can each do the other's strengths as well, just not as well.
I was on a stance 80 the last 2 seasons and really enjoyed it. I would say that I am an intermediate skier who can ski all difficulty of pistes ( blue, red, black runs in austria). I love the stance 80 for it's playful nature, but when carving at higher speeds the ski starts to feel a bit unstable to me. I was thinking about the Black Crows Serpo as a similiar type of ski, which also enables me do a lot of different things on the mountain and might feel a bit more stable. I assume the serpo would be something that challenges me a bit more than the stance 80 and be a good step up that is also more capable off piste. Is it a ski that could make sense for me?
This makes a lot of sense. The Serpo has fantastic energy and carving power and is still very versatile. The ski is definitely a step up, maybe two, but if you're up for a stiffer ski with more power, this is going to be a lot of fun for you!
Hello! Looking for a easy going complement to my Deacon 84s. Was considering the QST 98 but feel like I would be waiting for very specific conditions to use them. I am more on trail but want something that can be used interchangeably with the Deacons depending on my mood or conditions. Torn between the Serpo and Camox. Also want that one ski to take out west once a year. Is there too much overlap between the Deacon and Serpo for this application?
I think the Serpo and Deacon are different enough, especially if you're looking to use it somewhat interchangeably. And yes, out west, unless it snows a ton, the Serpo will be a very useful ski. QST is more different for sure, but I'd put Camox with the QST rather than the Serpo. It doesn't sound like you're looking to stray too far from front side application, and to me, that puts Serpo above the other skis.
@@SkiEssentials Great! I appreciate the insight!
Would you go Body Height on the lenth of the ski?
For me for example im 187cm Tall shall i take 180 or 186?
I'd say 186 in that ski. It's not particularly stiff or demanding, so unless you want the shorter turn radius of the 180 or are looking for a quicker and more maneuverable ski, I think 186 is great.
Hi, thanks for your great videos and reviews! I have been skiing on blizzard bonafide 179 cm and 97 cm wide since the model launched . I like them but now I ski more with my kids and I feel sometimes that the bonafide requires more speed to get the most out of them. I am an advanced experienced skier and I like to charge and carv in high speed, mostly in the pist with some of trail runs here and there but I would also like to sometimes be able to slow it down a bit and still enjoy the ski. I would also like the ski to be more playful than the old bonafide. Would serpo be a good switch for me or do you recommend something else?
Serpo is great, but you're still in a similar category in terms of speedy carvers--this is lighter and with less metal, so you are taking the top gear down a bit. I'd also check out the Blizzard Rustler 9--this is more of a natural progression within the Blizzard line to move from their top-tier speedster to a more playful freeride ski. Still has some chops, but certainly a more mobile shape and style.
Crazy helpful reciews! Debating heavily on getting this Ski as my one quiver Ski for all year long. Skiing mostly in Europe and groomers but wanna get much more into offpiste. Debating between the Serpo, Stormrider 95 or a little more focused on groomers with the Montero AX.
I like to go very fast but also occasionally go for a short to middle range carving swings. I dont wanna lose much performance on the groomers but also wanna be happy off piste all trip long if the European conditions allow it.
To what ski would u tend to ? Or is there any other ski i am overlooking ? 😅
I'd lean to the more groomer focused Montero AX. I think this ski has a sneaky set of versatility to it and is incredibly rewarding on smooth and firm surfaces. Unless you run into deep powder, you should be all set. Those other skis aren't perfect in powder either.
How does the ski in short turns? Would expext that its pretty hard & exhausting because of the 93mm middle lenght.
It's all relative when it comes to demand, and width isn't everything. There are many narrow skis out there that are a lot more demanding versus the Serpo, as it's metal-free in the tips and tails to make it a bit friendlier in those short to mid-range turns. You can certainly make it difficult if you want, but this ski operates quite well in the middle range of turn shapes and styles.
Super informative! Quick question, at 5’9” and 160 lbs, skiing fairly aggressively. Looking to use these mostly on groomers but also would like to get off piste with some bumps and chutes. Should I opt for 180 vs. 174?
I'd go 174 in that ski based on your stats and application. Have fun!
Would you go with this or the Justis? I’m a strong skier on the east coast. Thanks!
If I'm on the east coast and mostly sticking to groomers, I think the Serpo makes more sense. That said, the Justis is a very competent ski, it's just heavier and stiffer than the Serpo, so it takes more work to get the same carving and on-piste capabilities.
Hi SE, how does this compare to the Declivity 92ti ? And the old Rustler 9 ? Many Thanks!
The Serpo and Declivity are a lot more alike than the Rustler 9, which is an outlier of this grouping, mainly due to the rocker profile and taper shape. Declivity is very quiet and smooth, making the energy appear just under the surface. The Serpo's energy is more overt--it's such an incredible pop in the ski with amazing tail rebound. I'd put the Declivity in the middle of the three, but is a lot closer to the Serpo than the Rustler.
Hi SE, how would you compare the Serpo to the Elan Ripstick 96 Black? I’m a European Advanced (agressive) skier looking for a playful pair of skis for mostly groomer use. I’m 173cm and weigh about 70kg. Thanks a lot!!
First off, love them both. The Serpo has a bit more pep in its step than the Ripstick, especially in the mid-range of turn shapes and styles. I find the Ripstick to be more versatile--better in bumps and trees while the Serpo is better suited to groomed snow and smooth surfaces--in this realm you can fully take advantage of the energy of the ski. If you're looking for mostly groomer use, I'd lean to the Serpo.
I have old Mantras from 2006 that I still enjoy. Would you recommend getting the Mirus Cor as a complement to the Mantras or getting the Serpos as a one ski quicker and getting rid of the old Mantras. How do the Serpos compare to the old Mantras?
I think if you get the Serpo, you'll quickly forget about the Mantra. The energy is top end and it's still pretty darn stable, although the 2006 Mantra is a beast. I love the quickness and precision of the Serpo and it is pretty versatile as well. Mirus Cor is so unique--it's hard to call it a one-ski quiver, you're better off with the Serpo as one, and I think there's something to be said for modern technology and you will find the Mantra to feel a bit dull after skiing either Serpo or the Mirus Cor.
@@SkiEssentials
Thanks a lot, I appreciate your input and your prompt reply. Very inspiring.
I have the prior version of the QST 92. How would you compare these two skis? I also have the Divus in a 172. I’m 5’9” and I felt it was a bit short. You think the 180 Serpo would be better?
The Serpo has more of an on-trail personality with fantastic energy and rebound coming out of the turn. QST is perfectly fine in this arena, but in the versatility department, the QST really shines. I think if you are more adventurous and in search of powder, bumps, and trees, the QST is more sensible, but for groomer performance and more of an on-trail carver, the Serpo is one of the best at this width. I'd think the Serpo in the 174 would be good--this ski is wider and a bit heftier than the Divus.
How would you compare them to Stormriders? I know the SR is damper and precise. What about edge hold? If that’s the only difference then how about compared to the QST? Does it have more edge hold?
I'd say the Serpo has better edge hold. I found that ski to be incredibly rewarding and satisfying in an energetic carved turn. Both have better grip than QST, but when it comes to softer snow and more versatility, it's QST all day.
Hi Jeff, I'm 6"1, 170lbs. An intermediate to advanced skier. I like 70% on-piste and 30% off-piste when there's some powder. I love to ride on a stable, and good grip ski. Would you recommend serpo 180 or 186? I also considered enforcer 88/94, or steadfast 85 (because I tested it) thanks!
I'd say 180 based on your stats and application. The Enforcer 94 is probably the closest on your list, but the Serpo has more energy and quickness.
@@SkiEssentials thanks so much for your reply!
West Coast Intermediate to Advanced Skiier. 170 cm Tall. 165 lbs. Stuck between 168 and 174. Currently ski on 176's but they sometimes feel cumbersome in trees and crud. Thoughts?
I'd say the 168 is a better choice for your stats and application, especially given your current experience on 176's.
Hi, thanks for the review! Im strongly considering these as my first skis, Im strong intermediate/advanced and am looking for all mountain skis to be used mainly for carving on groomers (I ski in Europe) but also a bit off piste and occasionally some powder. I like to go really fast and am a bit worried since they’re so light, you think they hold up well at high speeds? Also I’m 180cm and weigh about 70kg would you recommend the 174 size?
Also what do you mean with 100% directional ski?
Directional refers to the fact that it's not a twin tip and the mount point is generally farther back in the ski to line up with the camber profile. They're pretty darn stable at speed, especially in a carved turn. I'd go 174 in that ski.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks so much for the reply and awesome reviews! Super helpful
Looking to pick these up, but unsure what length I should go with. I'm 5'8, 135 lbs and would consider myself an advanced intermediate, stay mostly on groomers today but trying to get to like 70/30 on groomers vs off piste/trees. Any thoughts? I'm between the 168 and 174s
I'd go 168. The skis are pretty sturdy and strong, so there's no real need to upsize in order to access performance.
Hey SE! Looking to upgrade a 2 ski quiver out west. I picked up the Ripstick 106 Black in 180cm from you guys not long ago (which I love) and would like to upgrade my QST 92s (2022) in 177 with something a bit more stable/damp at speed, w/ better edge grip/power as my go to when it hasn't snowed in several days for frontside groomers. Would also like to power through cut up snow a bit better. For a directional skier, would you say the Serpo is a good 'upgrade'? Lastly, what size would you recommend (5'10/173 lbs.)? Appreciate the help!
Love the Serpo! This will be a better frontside ski than the QST 92, and while you'll lose a bit of ease of use, the high end of the Serpo is more appropriate for speed, power, and energy. I'd go with the 180 in that ski if you're looking for greater stability.
Thanks so much!
Good morning, best boot for this ski? I'm thinking about the K2 mindbender 100
Fit first--hard to say what boot is best for a ski. Normally, if you're a skilled skier and are interested in driving a high-performance and energetic ski like this, flex range starts at 110 and goes up to 130.
I’m wondering how good these are in the park or on jumps ??
Not great. They're pretty sharp and precise with a stiff flex especially underfoot. Captis or Camox within Black Crows line do a better job of mixing park, jumps, and all-mountain skiing than the more directional Serpo.
Hello, how would the serpo compare to Ripstick 96 black for all mountain use…mix of groomers, soft snow and off piste mostly east coast with the occasional trip out west ?
There's more kick out of the carve of the Serpo, and that gives it a more engaging on-trail and carving performance. The Ripstick is more versatile, and especially in soft snow. Is the boost in that realm worth a slight downgrade in on-piste performance to you and for what you do most of the time? If I'm mostly east with occasional west, I'm leaning to the Serpo.
Appreciate the feedback! One last question…how does the sender 94 Ti compare to these two? Thank you again!
@@sstoican1It's right there. The Sender has a flatter tail than the other two, and that allows it to stay engaged in the turn longer, making for a smoother overall feel. It's not as dynamic or agile as a result, but there is a different feel when it comes to letting them run.
Hi all, how does this compare to the new Mindbender 89ti. Thanks!
Pretty similar, even with a bit of a width difference. The K2 has a stronger and more powerful finish to the turn while the Serpo's is more poppy. You can rip more, shorter turns in succession on the Serpo while the K2 likes to be rolled a bit more.
Interested in buying these, how long have they been the same construction? Gonna try to snag some past year pair as long as the ski is structurally the same
That’s what I did. I saved close to $400 around Black Friday for last year’s model
As long as I can remember, the build has been the same. If you can get an older one at a price, definitely go for it!
For 105kg, 193cm, upper intermediate piste skier, would you recommend 186cm?
Yup! Have fun, great skis!
im pretty good skier ,90 % offpist , but wanna buy all terrain skis, im ,5'9 187lbs ,, what size serpo should i take 174/180 have old Atris in 184cm and qst 106 in 181
I'd go 180 if you're used to this size.
How does it feel about trashy afternoon groomers? Difference from the cleaner carving terrain?
They don't hold up quite as well in the trash as something like the Enforcer 94, but they do just fine. Since the metal isn't full length or width, you will lose a bit in terms of power and stability, but that might be worth the tradeoff in which you're gaining lighter weight and energy on a smoother groomer.
@@SkiEssentials all 3 of the Black Crows in that range (vertis, minus cor and serpo) are intriguing. I ski stockli laser ax 183 and j masterblaster 187 currently. All the black crows feel like they could be fun in the middle
Its ok if All terrain or All mountain skis are 5cm higher than you? thanks!
It's all about preference--there is no hard and fast rule. Generally, head high or a bit lower is a good place to start, and then you can go up or down depending on how aggressive you ski or how long you prefer your turns to be.
@@SkiEssentials HI, finally I got skis Black diamond Boundaries of 1.84cm and Im 1.74cm ... Still good if are 10cm gigher than me? thank you!
@@pinpon853If they're light enough and you can maneuver them and have fun on them, then there's no such thing as a wrong length.
@@SkiEssentials thank you for the info! I rally appreciate it! ... Ill follow your channel, you have good info!
How are these compared to something similar like the captis
The Serpo is a lot more reactive and stable when it comes to carving clean turns. The Captis is more playful, and for most skiers, more versatile. The twin tip shape is great for creative skiing in a variety of conditions and terrain. Serpo is more at home on the groomers and in a carved turn.
Can you compare these to the Mantra M6, please?
The Serpo is friendlier and more accessible. You're losing a bit out of the top end when it comes to power and stability, but the Serpo is more versatile with a more energetic tail. Most skiers will have more fun on the Serpo, but if you're into top-shelf precision and power, it's hard to top the Mantra.
Looking at the serpo for my one ski to use all season. The 2023 Serpo is half the price at nerby stores. Would you say the 2024 is worth paying double? Thanks!
Same ski, different graphic!
@@SkiEssentials thanks! Going with the 2023. Love your videos!
Is this a better carver than the new Rustler 9?
Yes.
Hi there. How are these compared to the Camox?
Serpo has a snappier feel, especially in the tail. The Camox has a longer turn radius and more of a twin tip shape, so you're not getting quite the same reaction and pop out of the ski. That said, the Camox is a lot more amenable to trees, bumps, softer snow, and creativity while the Serpo is more locked in to on-piste performance with moderate versatility.
@@SkiEssentials thank you
How do these compare to captis
Serpo's H-shaped metal and squared-off tail make it a very precise and strong ski in a carved turn. I love the energy and pop out of the Serpo. That said, the Captis is more playful and fun and versatile overall, especially if you bring freestyle and park into the discussion.