Wow,took me about an hour to understand that you need to ski it pretty center but it gave me so much control it's amazing.My confidence in tight terrain and soft snow went to the roof.Really a great complement to my deacon 74.thanks guys
I have the M Free 108. Great ski. This (M-Free 99) may be the successor to my Blizzard Rustler 10 in my 98-102 mm width ski in the quiver! Thanks for the mounting point info (8:00). It sounds very close, proportionally, to the 108, which I have mounted with telemark bindings and that point is spot on, for performance in that application!
Basically has to do with how and when it's measured, and there's no industry standard or consistency, which is why a given length is not always the same from different manufacturers. If you're measuring the length of materials before going into a press it's going to be different than the length after a ski is pressed into its final shape. I measured out the tip to tail length to be 178 cm, but I would almost guarantee the running length (measuring along the bends in the tips and tails and the camber) is 179. Hopefully that makes sense...
@@SkiEssentials Jeff you were on the 179 in the video - is that the length you'd prefer or would you go up to 184 to own for yourself? Nice explanation of how to carve on it by the way.
Love that you brought out menace 98 for comparison, some of us have that "older" ski :) Also good to talk about the driving of shovels, I will holdon to the menace 98, until they make a longer version of m-free 99.
This seems like a really cool ski. Could you compare it to the Bent Chetler 100, Fischer Ranger 102 FR, Armada Tracer 98 and the Volk Revolt 104? :) Kinda the same width, they`re all playful and could be that one quiver ski. Hard to choose between them. Thank you for all the reviews out there. Always nice to see Skiessentials on the top of the search result here on RUclips when searching for a ski review. Then I know I will get all the information I need :)
Agreed! Would like to add the rustler 10, camox, and the new QST 98 to this mix. These all look like really playful skis. Which one holds the better on-piste performance while ultimately maintaining the most enjoyable off-piste tight trees, 4-8 inches of pow and choppy bump performance?
Thanks! Lots of skis in there... It'll be a lot of fun to do our 2022 comparison videos with some of these new players... For now, I'll do my best. The M-Free stands out because of the long rocker, and the relatively symmetrical rocker/camber profile. The amount of tail rocker and its construction gives it a very smooth, surfy, smeary feel. In comparison... The Bent Chetler 100 is relatively similar, but has more camber and a snappier, more energetic flex pattern. The Ranger 102 is kind of the same story, although I think that ski gains some torsional stiffness compared to the M-Free and BC 100, just not as smeary as the M-Free. Revolt 104 is actually an interesting comparison... Really long rocker in that ski, but it doesn't feel quite as agile as the M-Free 99. Probably a lot of that has to do with just being a wider ski, but to me the Revolt 104 feels a little heavier and more stable, but not as quick. Good float in the Revolt, however. Tracer 98 is a much more directional shape, first one in this group that's not a twin tip. Its construction actually feels similar to the M-Free (smooth, relatively damp, but not heavy), but it's more precise and less smeary, again coming down to the amount of tail rocker. Adding in HonestRCDad's skis... Rustler 10 kind of feels like a blend of the Ranger and M-Free. More torsional stiffness than the M-Free, more of a smeary feel than the Ranger, and a little more forgiving than that ski as well. Camox might actually be the closest ski to the M-Free 99... similar feel, although I still don't think it's as surfy/smeary as the M-Free just due to slightly longer effective edge. New QST 98 is an interesting comparison, actually... There are a lot of similarities... but a different feel overall. More of a directional ski, while still having a lot of tail rocker... We're releasing a QST 98 review this week so we'll talk a lot more about how that ski performs. Hope that helps!
Dude I wish the Stowe Demo shop was open 😩 drove the extra 4 hours north for the first time and it was amazing....about to pull the trigger on these skis but wanna try out as many as I can /:
Our retail store Pinnacle Ski and Sports has pretty much everything that we sell online. That said, we're currently selling off our demo fleet so if you find your way back up, I'd call ahead 802/253/7222
So many incredible skis on the market, and your reviews are incredible! I was wondering if you could explain the benefits/trade offs of early taper. It looks like more skis are blending the early taper now or using less of it, but in honesty I don’t know what early taper does. Thanks!
Yes its becoming a little less of a trend, I can understand why because most models was very tapered all of a sudden, and its not for everyone. Especially not for intermediate 40 year old men which probably make up 90% of ski sales... I ski the Mythic 97 which has ton of early taper and I love it, gives the ski a ton of versatility where you can turn aggressively and get a short turning radius or tilt it more gently and you get a longer, surfy turn. Some people say its worse on-piste, i think the complete opposite. As long as you trust it, have the right position (not too far forward) and have skis with the right length (preferably a bit longer) it can work great on-piste. Some people think the shorter effective edge makes it more unpredictable or unstable but I have never felt that at all. Downside for me is its a little bit choppy in uneven terrain, especially icy spots off piste and slushy snow on piste. Also it can be a little more demanding, a ski with less early taper is a bit easier to just ride without too much thinking or input from you.
More taper gives you a shorter effective edge and lower swing weight, meaning the ski will be easier to pivot, drift, and release from turns; better soft snow performance. Less taper will give you a longer effective edge and lets the tips pull you into the turn, the tails will give you more support through the turn. On the extremes, most playful powder skis will have a lot of taper and dedicated carving skis will have little to none
@@src248 awesome response, thanks! So the alternative to early taper to retain float and playfulness but also get a bit more edge grip would be longer rocker profiles? Is this why my rustler 10s are easy to quickly slash sideways but want to the get back down the fall line?
@@mingram0707 I'm no ski designer or anything but yeah, it all works together. Long but shallow rocker lets a ski pivot easily when the bases are flat but gives you more edge the more you lean the ski over. I used to have a pair of 141 wide powder skis with very little taper, super interesting ski as it would do all the things you'd expect a pow ski to do but then when you tipped it right over you had a ton of edge; made them a great charger and way better on groomers than anyone would expect from a 141
So you briefly touched on the comparison to an enforcer for carving,. How does this ski compare to the Enforcer 104/110 free and the Fischer Ranger 102 fr, another ski that has been called agile and a do it all ski? Also, interesting with the exit of the Rossi Soul 7 that Dynastar brings this free series that seems to have a decent amount of similarities.
In my opinion, those skis all carve a little better than the M-Free 99, but they're not quite as agile or as playful. The Ranger 102 is definitely the closest comparison, but you do get longer effective edge in that ski and a little more torsional stiffness, at least in my opinion. The Ranger isn't, however, as surfy/smeary as the M-Free 99, as the Fischer has longer rocker. The rocker profile in the Enforcers is more similar to the M-Free, but those skis are heavier and more powerful with their 2 sheets of metal, so thus carve a little better. I agree that the timing of the discontinuation of the Soul 7 and the introduction of the M-Free line is interesting. They're different, as they M-Free skis have a lot more freestyle influence in their shape, but I also think it's fair to say, in general, the M-Free 108 is just as easy to ski as the Soul 7 is/was.
Hi! Im about to get new skis and think I have narrow it down to m-free or qst 98. Im quite new to wider skis. But want a playfull ski for riding side hits, learn 360, carv and trying to learn ride more off pist. But mostly groomers and riding next på groomers. Im 6”3 and 187 pounds and carv quite aggressiv.
I think the Salomon is a better choice for your size and aggressiveness. It's super-fun and playful while still having some stoutness to it. It's a fantastic floater and carver while having fairly dramatic rocker profile and taper shape.
What was the fall you spoke about with Bob? Sounded like you were referring to an issue with shape/stability? Is it something potential buyers should be considering?
Bob stuffed the shovel getting a little too aggressive on a groomer, which yeah, is a limitation of the ski. Important to keep in mind that Bob is a big guy, 6'2 225, and can drive a ski pretty hard. Also important to consider that what he was doing isn't really a focus of this ski, it's more geared towards playfulness, maneuverability, etc than just ripping groomer turns.
I don't think so. I'm 6/2 225 and like that ski in the length. You do have to ski it a bit more centrally, but overall it's an awesome ski with good power and stability for being so playful and mobile.
Hey guys! Is this dynastar free lineup the closest lineup to the old Rossi sin7, soul7 and s7? I appreciate that old lineup as it was very easy to recommend to intermediates that are at that border of advanced and is pretty forgiving. Basically want something that is good in everything but doesn’t excel at any one thing. Been trying to find something else to recommend for those folks (aka most actual skiers) ha
Hey Bryant! Yeah, they're definitely some of the closest comparisons to the old Rossi Sin, Soul, etc. As you identified, appropriate for intermediates, bordering with advanced, and quite forgiving. I'd say the M-Free skis will take you further than the Sin/Soul would in terms of overall progression, but they aren't any harder to ski. The other collection I think is good for skiers coming off those skis are Elan Ripsticks. More precise than the M-Free line, but similarly easy to ski with a high performance ceiling.
Hey man, was wondering if you could inform me on if you think this is a smart ski to jump into coming out of the 2012 Armada ARV. I used to ride in the park more, now my focus is moreso groomers, with some out west trips in the winter which involve more all mountain skiing. I feel that the ARV's I have now have worked great, but are too flexible and chattery at high speeds. I'm looking for something that is versatile, but can still handle some on piste charging without losing its edge. Thanks in advance! -Arie
Hey Arie! These aren't going to be tremendously strong, but I do think you'll find them smoother and less chattery than your ARV. Pretty cool construction that Dynastar used in these skis which does add some nice vibration damping. Super versatile for soft snow for those west coast trips too. Again, not the strongest on groomers, but considering what you're coming off of it does sound like this is what you want.
Holyshred is more powerful, longer effective edge, feels a little heavier, and has more vibration damping. The M-Free is lighter, quicker, has longer rocker, a surfier feel in soft snow, but not as much power or vibration damping. I think the 2 skis complement each other nicely, which makes sense for sister brands.
Hey! Question for jeff: Wondering what you'd choose between the m free 99 and the unleashed 98 as a daily driver? Looking for something that's solid on groomers, forgiving in tighter terrain/ powder and can mess around on rails/jumps in the park. from what I gather, the unleashed is a more powerful ski because of the metal. In your experience does that make it a better carver? on the flip side, the m free seems to be a bit flexier and potentially more manoeverable in the trees/powder? Let me know what you think!
He has chosen the Unleashed 98 for a daily driver--equally at home in the park as it is in an all-mountain format. It's a better carver than the M-Free due to the metal for sure. I would say that for trees and powder only, the M-Free is slightly superior.
Hello!. I have been sking for lots of years with rented skis. last 4 years I've been renting a Movement Gladiator 93. I loved them but they are from 2009 with an old shape and want something new. My type of skiing is going everywhere. I love tracks, going off them, skiing some powder, sking backside (starting this year) and jumping everywhere (Also starting in the park). I have fell IN LOVE with theese skis. They are my deam ones, with that rocker and as you said, that playfulness. What size do you recommend to me? I'm 181cm tall, my weigh is +-85kg. The wider the ski, the more I like it. I want to get the 108 version but after this video i think i will go for 99. What do you think? Also, what lenght of skis should i get? 184cm are good for me? The last question I have is where to mount the binding. I have never have my own skis so this is a really important decision. Also, which ones do you suggest me? Thanks for your help mate!
I think the 99 in the 185 makes a lot of sense. I think the 108 is awesome, but only if you have another ski to complement it with. The 99 is a great choice for one pair. We mate them with Tyrolia Attack 14 bindings, and for the most part, mount them right on the recommended line. www.skiessentials.com/2022-dynastar-m-free-99-ski-w-tyrolia-attack2-14-gw-bindings.html
How would you say this compares to the reckoner 102? I liked the 102, but I always like my skis to be as "surfy" as possible, so would this be a bit better for me? Looks really surfy and fun!
I do think the M-Free 99 is more "surfy" than the Reckoner 102. Pretty close comparison, but the M-Free does have more pronounced rocker, which makes it super surfy/smeary in soft snow. Reckoner might have a little more edge grip, but if you're looking to maximize the surf-factor, I think M-Free 99 would be a good choice.
Is this something you could throw a shift binding and go touring with? Seems a bit heavier compared to the BC 100, but the extra tail rocker and splay seem like nice perks compared to the BC 100. How would you compare the two for 75/25 resort/touring use?
Hey Ryan! I think the M-Free 99 is a perfectly reasonable ski to put a Shift on. It's not too heavy in my opinion, especially for a 75/25 split. The M-Free 99 feels surfier and looser than the Bent Chetler. Better float too with the more pronounced rocker. The Bent Chetler feels quicker and more energetic, but not as surfy/smeary. Hope that helps!
Hi, Jeff! I am a skier from Romania and I have a 2019 Dynastar Proto 118waist & 189length as my big mountain powder ski with pivot 18 bindings. I also have 2020 Dynastar Legend 106waist & 182length with dynafit beast 14 bindings as my backcountry touring ski and my daily driver. I wanted to buy the Dynastar Menace 98 in 175length with look spx as my budget-friendly new daily driver ski for giving ski lessons and for starting to freestyle, but also for off-piste skiing. I found this quiver for 400 dollars at sale.Would it be a better idea to wait for the release of this new M-Free 99 and buy it instead of the Menace? I would like to use it as a do-it-all ski for some freeride, beginner freestyle and for teaching skiing to my customers. thanks!
Menace 98 is a sweet ski and at that price, you can't go wrong. It's a little more stable at speed than the M-Free and still will be a lot of fun for teaching and playing around with freestyle stuff.
With such deep rocker would you recommend going longer on these skis? I ski the BC 100 180s and they feel somewhat 'small' for someone who is 5'10''. I saw your comps to the BC 100 in other comments but curious about what you think about length.
You could definitely get away with going slightly longer, but you are ultimately still maneuvering that length of material. The ski doesn't get shorter with rocker- the effective edge of the ski gets shorter creating more ease of maneuverability and in a lot of cases, easier turn initiation.
Hi Jeff and the team. I relatively short (5 ft6 or 167cm) and I’m an advance intermediate pushing advance and exploring more off piste. I’m heavy at 84kg but fairly aggressive. Would you recommend 170 or 178 cm? And do you think this is a good ski for my skill progression? Been looking at so many others like the maverick 95, qst 98 and even the m-pro 99 instead!
Hey Jeff, im now wondering if i should wait for these to release, or go for the atomic bent chetler 100s. id say im a intermediate skier (maybe pushing advanced) and i ski mostly on piste, however when i se even a bit of soft snow, or a jump or something along the lines, ill go straight for them. im also on the heavier side, so which one would you suggest?
Both are great. The Bent Chetler has higher and longer camber, so it has a little more spring/pop/energy to it. The M-Free has a more surfy/smeary/buttery feel to it. So, either could work for you, just kind of depends which shape you like more...
Certainly can do that! it's not the lightest ski in the world, but definitely light enough to warrant a touring binding, especially for someone who wants a twin tip. There aren't many lighter twin tips that would be more appropriate for touring, that's for sure.
Bent Chetler has higher and longer camber, which gives it a more snappy/poppy/energetic flex pattern. The M-Free is more surfy/smeary and I think it's better in soft snow, but that's a pretty subjective analysis... they're both good in soft snow. It's mostly just a matter of which shape and the resulting feel works better for your ski style.
Hey thanks, whats the farthest forward you would mount? I think you said you were gonna talk about it but maybe forgot or I missed it. I have a freestyle background and usually mount around -2cm from true center, even for pow and all mtn. Thanks!
It's pretty symmetrical when it comes to rocker, so it's okay to get close to the center line, just so long as you're not going forward of the height of camber. I think -2 will be fine on that ski.
If my goal is to be very light on my feet and playfull and been able to incresse my abilities in tight woods and carving steeper terrain would this ski be a great option for me.Im 6'3 350lbs do you think i could overpower it ?
I do think overpowering is a possibility. I'd look to something a bit burlier and stiffer like the Head Kore 99 or the Salomon QST 98, or the Black Crows Camox. Have fun! SE
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Wow,took me about an hour to understand that you need to ski it pretty center but it gave me so much control it's amazing.My confidence in tight terrain and soft snow went to the roof.Really a great complement to my deacon 74.thanks guys
Thanks for the feedback Philippe! Have a great season!
I have the M Free 108. Great ski. This (M-Free 99) may be the successor to my Blizzard Rustler 10 in my 98-102 mm width ski in the quiver! Thanks for the mounting point info (8:00). It sounds very close, proportionally, to the 108, which I have mounted with telemark bindings and that point is spot on, for performance in that application!
Jeff, why is a 179 ski actually a 178 length?
Big fan. Thanks, I will hang up and listen.
Basically has to do with how and when it's measured, and there's no industry standard or consistency, which is why a given length is not always the same from different manufacturers. If you're measuring the length of materials before going into a press it's going to be different than the length after a ski is pressed into its final shape. I measured out the tip to tail length to be 178 cm, but I would almost guarantee the running length (measuring along the bends in the tips and tails and the camber) is 179. Hopefully that makes sense...
@@SkiEssentials Jeff you were on the 179 in the video - is that the length you'd prefer or would you go up to 184 to own for yourself? Nice explanation of how to carve on it by the way.
Love that you brought out menace 98 for comparison, some of us have that "older" ski :)
Also good to talk about the driving of shovels, I will holdon to the menace 98, until they make a longer version of m-free 99.
This seems like a really cool ski. Could you compare it to the Bent Chetler 100, Fischer Ranger 102 FR, Armada Tracer 98 and the Volk Revolt 104? :)
Kinda the same width, they`re all playful and could be that one quiver ski. Hard to choose between them.
Thank you for all the reviews out there. Always nice to see Skiessentials on the top of the search result here on RUclips when searching for a ski review. Then I know I will get all the information I need :)
Agreed! Would like to add the rustler 10, camox, and the new QST 98 to this mix. These all look like really playful skis. Which one holds the better on-piste performance while ultimately maintaining the most enjoyable off-piste tight trees, 4-8 inches of pow and choppy bump performance?
Thanks! Lots of skis in there... It'll be a lot of fun to do our 2022 comparison videos with some of these new players... For now, I'll do my best.
The M-Free stands out because of the long rocker, and the relatively symmetrical rocker/camber profile. The amount of tail rocker and its construction gives it a very smooth, surfy, smeary feel.
In comparison... The Bent Chetler 100 is relatively similar, but has more camber and a snappier, more energetic flex pattern. The Ranger 102 is kind of the same story, although I think that ski gains some torsional stiffness compared to the M-Free and BC 100, just not as smeary as the M-Free. Revolt 104 is actually an interesting comparison... Really long rocker in that ski, but it doesn't feel quite as agile as the M-Free 99. Probably a lot of that has to do with just being a wider ski, but to me the Revolt 104 feels a little heavier and more stable, but not as quick. Good float in the Revolt, however. Tracer 98 is a much more directional shape, first one in this group that's not a twin tip. Its construction actually feels similar to the M-Free (smooth, relatively damp, but not heavy), but it's more precise and less smeary, again coming down to the amount of tail rocker.
Adding in HonestRCDad's skis... Rustler 10 kind of feels like a blend of the Ranger and M-Free. More torsional stiffness than the M-Free, more of a smeary feel than the Ranger, and a little more forgiving than that ski as well. Camox might actually be the closest ski to the M-Free 99... similar feel, although I still don't think it's as surfy/smeary as the M-Free just due to slightly longer effective edge. New QST 98 is an interesting comparison, actually... There are a lot of similarities... but a different feel overall. More of a directional ski, while still having a lot of tail rocker... We're releasing a QST 98 review this week so we'll talk a lot more about how that ski performs.
Hope that helps!
@@SkiEssentials wow nice and long reply! Thank you so much! 😁
You guys should do a review on the ON3P Jeffery 102
As far as I can see, they don’t sell ON3P.
Just picked a pair up
Dude I wish the Stowe Demo shop was open 😩 drove the extra 4 hours north for the first time and it was amazing....about to pull the trigger on these skis but wanna try out as many as I can /:
Our retail store Pinnacle Ski and Sports has pretty much everything that we sell online. That said, we're currently selling off our demo fleet so if you find your way back up, I'd call ahead 802/253/7222
So many incredible skis on the market, and your reviews are incredible! I was wondering if you could explain the benefits/trade offs of early taper. It looks like more skis are blending the early taper now or using less of it, but in honesty I don’t know what early taper does. Thanks!
Yes its becoming a little less of a trend, I can understand why because most models was very tapered all of a sudden, and its not for everyone. Especially not for intermediate 40 year old men which probably make up 90% of ski sales... I ski the Mythic 97 which has ton of early taper and I love it, gives the ski a ton of versatility where you can turn aggressively and get a short turning radius or tilt it more gently and you get a longer, surfy turn.
Some people say its worse on-piste, i think the complete opposite. As long as you trust it, have the right position (not too far forward) and have skis with the right length (preferably a bit longer) it can work great on-piste. Some people think the shorter effective edge makes it more unpredictable or unstable but I have never felt that at all.
Downside for me is its a little bit choppy in uneven terrain, especially icy spots off piste and slushy snow on piste. Also it can be a little more demanding, a ski with less early taper is a bit easier to just ride without too much thinking or input from you.
More taper gives you a shorter effective edge and lower swing weight, meaning the ski will be easier to pivot, drift, and release from turns; better soft snow performance. Less taper will give you a longer effective edge and lets the tips pull you into the turn, the tails will give you more support through the turn. On the extremes, most playful powder skis will have a lot of taper and dedicated carving skis will have little to none
@@src248 awesome response, thanks! So the alternative to early taper to retain float and playfulness but also get a bit more edge grip would be longer rocker profiles? Is this why my rustler 10s are easy to quickly slash sideways but want to the get back down the fall line?
@@mingram0707 I'm no ski designer or anything but yeah, it all works together. Long but shallow rocker lets a ski pivot easily when the bases are flat but gives you more edge the more you lean the ski over. I used to have a pair of 141 wide powder skis with very little taper, super interesting ski as it would do all the things you'd expect a pow ski to do but then when you tipped it right over you had a ton of edge; made them a great charger and way better on groomers than anyone would expect from a 141
@@src248 what you had a snowboard strapped to each foot!?
I just bought it with the 2023 Look Pivot 15 I'll test it this summer damn I'm sure I'm gonna do the job with those babies
Killer setup right there!!
So you briefly touched on the comparison to an enforcer for carving,. How does this ski compare to the Enforcer 104/110 free and the Fischer Ranger 102 fr, another ski that has been called agile and a do it all ski? Also, interesting with the exit of the Rossi Soul 7 that Dynastar brings this free series that seems to have a decent amount of similarities.
In my opinion, those skis all carve a little better than the M-Free 99, but they're not quite as agile or as playful. The Ranger 102 is definitely the closest comparison, but you do get longer effective edge in that ski and a little more torsional stiffness, at least in my opinion. The Ranger isn't, however, as surfy/smeary as the M-Free 99, as the Fischer has longer rocker. The rocker profile in the Enforcers is more similar to the M-Free, but those skis are heavier and more powerful with their 2 sheets of metal, so thus carve a little better.
I agree that the timing of the discontinuation of the Soul 7 and the introduction of the M-Free line is interesting. They're different, as they M-Free skis have a lot more freestyle influence in their shape, but I also think it's fair to say, in general, the M-Free 108 is just as easy to ski as the Soul 7 is/was.
@@SkiEssentials thanks for the reply. These 100 to ~110 width all mountain skis are getting so nuanced. It’s cool too see all the differences
Hi!
Im about to get new skis and think I have narrow it down to m-free or qst 98. Im quite new to wider skis. But want a playfull ski for riding side hits, learn 360, carv and trying to learn ride more off pist. But mostly groomers and riding next på groomers. Im 6”3 and 187 pounds and carv quite aggressiv.
I think the Salomon is a better choice for your size and aggressiveness. It's super-fun and playful while still having some stoutness to it. It's a fantastic floater and carver while having fairly dramatic rocker profile and taper shape.
Awesome vid
Great video. Do you have a sense when you will be testing the Head Kores? Thanks!
Have been quite a bit already! Kore 99 review will either go up this afternoon or tomorrow afternoon... likely tomorrow.
What was the fall you spoke about with Bob? Sounded like you were referring to an issue with shape/stability? Is it something potential buyers should be considering?
Bob stuffed the shovel getting a little too aggressive on a groomer, which yeah, is a limitation of the ski. Important to keep in mind that Bob is a big guy, 6'2 225, and can drive a ski pretty hard. Also important to consider that what he was doing isn't really a focus of this ski, it's more geared towards playfulness, maneuverability, etc than just ripping groomer turns.
At 6'2" /200 lbs would the 185 be too short for me ? I really like these skis. Debating those and the 106 in a 192. Thanks.
I don't think so. I'm 6/2 225 and like that ski in the length. You do have to ski it a bit more centrally, but overall it's an awesome ski with good power and stability for being so playful and mobile.
@@SkiEssentials thanks for the reply .
Hey guys! Is this dynastar free lineup the closest lineup to the old Rossi sin7, soul7 and s7? I appreciate that old lineup as it was very easy to recommend to intermediates that are at that border of advanced and is pretty forgiving. Basically want something that is good in everything but doesn’t excel at any one thing. Been trying to find something else to recommend for those folks (aka most actual skiers) ha
Hey Bryant! Yeah, they're definitely some of the closest comparisons to the old Rossi Sin, Soul, etc. As you identified, appropriate for intermediates, bordering with advanced, and quite forgiving. I'd say the M-Free skis will take you further than the Sin/Soul would in terms of overall progression, but they aren't any harder to ski. The other collection I think is good for skiers coming off those skis are Elan Ripsticks. More precise than the M-Free line, but similarly easy to ski with a high performance ceiling.
Hey man, was wondering if you could inform me on if you think this is a smart ski to jump into coming out of the 2012 Armada ARV. I used to ride in the park more, now my focus is moreso groomers, with some out west trips in the winter which involve more all mountain skiing. I feel that the ARV's I have now have worked great, but are too flexible and chattery at high speeds. I'm looking for something that is versatile, but can still handle some on piste charging without losing its edge. Thanks in advance! -Arie
Hey Arie! These aren't going to be tremendously strong, but I do think you'll find them smoother and less chattery than your ARV. Pretty cool construction that Dynastar used in these skis which does add some nice vibration damping. Super versatile for soft snow for those west coast trips too. Again, not the strongest on groomers, but considering what you're coming off of it does sound like this is what you want.
With you mentioning this going a different direction than the Holyshred, how would you say the two compare, with those differences in mind?
Holyshred is more powerful, longer effective edge, feels a little heavier, and has more vibration damping. The M-Free is lighter, quicker, has longer rocker, a surfier feel in soft snow, but not as much power or vibration damping. I think the 2 skis complement each other nicely, which makes sense for sister brands.
Hi Jeff. I was on some rental k2 poachers. Really enjoyed them. Do you know how these compare? No park riding, mostly off trail riding.
Really similar--a bit more pep and pop in the Dynastar. The K2 is very smooth and damp for a twin tip.
Hey!
Question for jeff: Wondering what you'd choose between the m free 99 and the unleashed 98 as a daily driver?
Looking for something that's solid on groomers, forgiving in tighter terrain/ powder and can mess around on rails/jumps in the park.
from what I gather, the unleashed is a more powerful ski because of the metal. In your experience does that make it a better carver?
on the flip side, the m free seems to be a bit flexier and potentially more manoeverable in the trees/powder?
Let me know what you think!
He has chosen the Unleashed 98 for a daily driver--equally at home in the park as it is in an all-mountain format. It's a better carver than the M-Free due to the metal for sure. I would say that for trees and powder only, the M-Free is slightly superior.
Hello!. I have been sking for lots of years with rented skis. last 4 years I've been renting a Movement Gladiator 93. I loved them but they are from 2009 with an old shape and want something new. My type of skiing is going everywhere. I love tracks, going off them, skiing some powder, sking backside (starting this year) and jumping everywhere (Also starting in the park). I have fell IN LOVE with theese skis. They are my deam ones, with that rocker and as you said, that playfulness. What size do you recommend to me? I'm 181cm tall, my weigh is +-85kg. The wider the ski, the more I like it. I want to get the 108 version but after this video i think i will go for 99. What do you think? Also, what lenght of skis should i get? 184cm are good for me?
The last question I have is where to mount the binding. I have never have my own skis so this is a really important decision. Also, which ones do you suggest me?
Thanks for your help mate!
I think the 99 in the 185 makes a lot of sense. I think the 108 is awesome, but only if you have another ski to complement it with. The 99 is a great choice for one pair. We mate them with Tyrolia Attack 14 bindings, and for the most part, mount them right on the recommended line. www.skiessentials.com/2022-dynastar-m-free-99-ski-w-tyrolia-attack2-14-gw-bindings.html
How would you say this compares to the reckoner 102?
I liked the 102, but I always like my skis to be as "surfy" as possible, so would this be a bit better for me? Looks really surfy and fun!
Great question
I do think the M-Free 99 is more "surfy" than the Reckoner 102. Pretty close comparison, but the M-Free does have more pronounced rocker, which makes it super surfy/smeary in soft snow. Reckoner might have a little more edge grip, but if you're looking to maximize the surf-factor, I think M-Free 99 would be a good choice.
Is this something you could throw a shift binding and go touring with? Seems a bit heavier compared to the BC 100, but the extra tail rocker and splay seem like nice perks compared to the BC 100. How would you compare the two for 75/25 resort/touring use?
Hey Ryan! I think the M-Free 99 is a perfectly reasonable ski to put a Shift on. It's not too heavy in my opinion, especially for a 75/25 split. The M-Free 99 feels surfier and looser than the Bent Chetler. Better float too with the more pronounced rocker. The Bent Chetler feels quicker and more energetic, but not as surfy/smeary. Hope that helps!
Hi, Jeff! I am a skier from Romania and I have a 2019 Dynastar Proto 118waist & 189length as my big mountain powder ski with pivot 18 bindings. I also have 2020 Dynastar Legend 106waist & 182length with dynafit beast 14 bindings as my backcountry touring ski and my daily driver.
I wanted to buy the Dynastar Menace 98 in 175length with look spx as my budget-friendly new daily driver ski for giving ski lessons and for starting to freestyle, but also for off-piste skiing. I found this quiver for 400 dollars at sale.Would it be a better idea to wait for the release of this new M-Free 99 and buy it instead of the Menace?
I would like to use it as a do-it-all ski for some freeride, beginner freestyle and for teaching skiing to my customers.
thanks!
Menace 98 is a sweet ski and at that price, you can't go wrong. It's a little more stable at speed than the M-Free and still will be a lot of fun for teaching and playing around with freestyle stuff.
@@SkiEssentials thanks guys! I learned a lot about skis and how to choose them from your videos and articles. I wish you a lot of powder next season!
With such deep rocker would you recommend going longer on these skis? I ski the BC 100 180s and they feel somewhat 'small' for someone who is 5'10''. I saw your comps to the BC 100 in other comments but curious about what you think about length.
You could definitely get away with going slightly longer, but you are ultimately still maneuvering that length of material. The ski doesn't get shorter with rocker- the effective edge of the ski gets shorter creating more ease of maneuverability and in a lot of cases, easier turn initiation.
Hi Jeff and the team. I relatively short (5 ft6 or 167cm) and I’m an advance intermediate pushing advance and exploring more off piste. I’m heavy at 84kg but fairly aggressive. Would you recommend 170 or 178 cm? And do you think this is a good ski for my skill progression? Been looking at so many others like the maverick 95, qst 98 and even the m-pro 99 instead!
I would say 170, you typically don't want a ski that's taller than you
I'm 6'1 140lbs on the more advanced to expert side and I'm considering the 179 but I also plan to use in the park
I’m a heavier rider, but still want some of that all mountain playfulness.
Is this the right way to go ?
It's awesome! Sturdy due to the hybrid core, but very playful thanks to the rocker. I wish they made it longer!
Hey Jeff, im now wondering if i should wait for these to release, or go for the atomic bent chetler 100s. id say im a intermediate skier (maybe pushing advanced) and i ski mostly on piste, however when i se even a bit of soft snow, or a jump or something along the lines, ill go straight for them. im also on the heavier side, so which one would you suggest?
Both are great. The Bent Chetler has higher and longer camber, so it has a little more spring/pop/energy to it. The M-Free has a more surfy/smeary/buttery feel to it. So, either could work for you, just kind of depends which shape you like more...
@@SkiEssentials does this mean that BC 100 are harder to butter or just different?
I am 5’9 would a 179 be a good size for an advanced skier?
Yes, great choice! I'm about your size and that's the length I prefer.
Hello Guys , i want to ask for your opinion if is good idea mount on Dynastar M-Free 99 touring bindings .
Certainly can do that! it's not the lightest ski in the world, but definitely light enough to warrant a touring binding, especially for someone who wants a twin tip. There aren't many lighter twin tips that would be more appropriate for touring, that's for sure.
How would you compare the BC 100 to these
Bent Chetler has higher and longer camber, which gives it a more snappy/poppy/energetic flex pattern. The M-Free is more surfy/smeary and I think it's better in soft snow, but that's a pretty subjective analysis... they're both good in soft snow. It's mostly just a matter of which shape and the resulting feel works better for your ski style.
Which one is more damp? M Free 99 or QST 98?
I would say the QST has more vibration damping while the M-Free is slightly easier to ski.
Hey thanks, whats the farthest forward you would mount? I think you said you were gonna talk about it but maybe forgot or I missed it. I have a freestyle background and usually mount around -2cm from true center, even for pow and all mtn. Thanks!
It's pretty symmetrical when it comes to rocker, so it's okay to get close to the center line, just so long as you're not going forward of the height of camber. I think -2 will be fine on that ski.
Perfect thanks! I think I'll do -2.5 just to be on the safe side. Cheers@@SkiEssentials
Would you recommend this ski over the benchetler 100.. looking for a all mountain ski. ??
What did you end up choosing?
What would be the max weight you would want for a touring ski?
For a dedicated touring ski with tech bindings and light boots, I don't want much over 1600 grams.
If my goal is to be very light on my feet and playfull and been able to incresse my abilities in tight woods and carving steeper terrain would this ski be a great option for me.Im 6'3 350lbs do you think i could overpower it ?
I do think overpowering is a possibility. I'd look to something a bit burlier and stiffer like the Head Kore 99 or the Salomon QST 98, or the Black Crows Camox. Have fun!
SE
Replace overpower with overweight and yes these are not skis for you - look into something with a metal core.
What lengths will these be available in?
171, 179, 185
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