2023 Salomon QST 106 Ski Review with SkiEssentials.com
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- Опубликовано: 16 фев 2022
- Following the changes we saw to the QST line in the 98 and Blank, Salomon has a new 106 for the 2023 ski season! There's also a new 92, which we'll cover in a later video.
www.skiessentials.com/Chairli...
Once again, sorry if you pick up on some weird audio through the intro. It's becoming evident that GoPro Hero 10s don't love moisture or cold. We'll try to find a solution and in the meantime, I hope you don't find it too annoying. -Jeff
Would you ever concider doing a review of EVI skis from Norway? Handmade backcountry skis.
Man, I could watch the SE crew ski all day long! Thanks for another great review.
Any time!
Oh boy is this great
Bob + Jeff - Wanted to offer a quick follow-up on my 2023 QST 106s. After three consecutive days on them (on far less than ideal conditions in upstate NY), they are undoubtedly the best all-around ski I've ridden in the past decade-and that list includes the Bacon, Metal and Hotshot. They are lighter, stabler and much more intuitive. Easy to initiate and exit turns-although they feel more comfortable making long turns. They also hold an edge far better than I expected on crust and with no chatter. Before these my longest ski was 186, but I did not want to go to 183. The 189 looks and feels longer, but is unnoticeable when turning (I mounted on the line too). I honestly found myself having to slow down a bit as these skis are so fast and smooth. Finally, I went with the new Strive 14 and feel as confident as when I ski my Marker Jesture. Keep up the good work and thanks. Mike
Thanks Mike!
We feel pretty good about that 106 as well. Nothing wrong with the Strive at all--great addition to the binding lineup!
SE
+1 to this
Ahh - some beauty snow (Edit: in the into). Good times. And ya - sick jump turns. You could even say ‘extreme’.
Jeff was getting after it for sure.
Torn between these and the blank. How much of a difference is it between them on firm snow. 106 outperforming the blanks with a great margin?
Would love some input!
There is a difference for sure. Does the 106 outperform the Blank? Yeah, it does. Is it a great margin? I dunno. It's noticeable, that's for sure, but the 106 isn't like the world's best firm snow ski by quite a stretch. I think a better way to think about it is do you need the extra width of the Blank? Do you get a ton of fresh snow, and really deep conditions at that? If yes, I'd go Blank. If you get your fair share of powder days, but it doesn't absolutely dump where you live, the 106 still provides a ton of float and might be the better option. I'd focus on soft snow and let the groomer performance work itself out, so to speak.
I would say that im an advanced skier. I am finally almost fully grown and is now going to buy my first skis. Do you recommend the Line Chronics, the Arv 96 armada or the K2 poachers? Keep up the good work👍❤️
Chronic is going to be the easiest to maneuver while the heavier ARV and Poacher require a bit more work. I'd say the Line is the best choice with the Poacher as the second. Nothing wrong with that ARV, you just have a very nice list of skis to work off of here.
Hi, thank you for sharing this video. My question is what are the bindings do you recommend for matching these Salomon QST 106 skis?
www.skiessentials.com/2023-salomon-qst-106-skis-w-tyrolia-attack-14-gw-bindings.html
Nice review! Been trying to find good reviews of this ski. Bought my dad a set of 106's and gf a set of 92's recently. Missing is good height/ length guides on this series. I bought their skis as close to their height as possible, is that what you would recommend?
Depends a bit on their skill level but yes, ski length = skier height should work well for these skis
Yes, that sounds like a good theory. The skis are heavy enough so that you don't have to downsize on them. 106's feel different than the 92's though, mostly due to the longer radius in the 106. This makes the 181 more suitable for a bigger skier while I would maybe err on the longer side for the 92's.
I currently have the QST 92s, and ski in CO; ~how many inches of powder do you think these can handle before stepping up to 106s is advised?
I would say 6 inches is about the cutoff where you'd really start to benefit from the 106. 6 inches will still allow the ski to rise back above the snow relatively easily. Anything deeper than that, the ski will start to get bogged down a little bit. Hope that helps!
Hey guys, love your reviews, you're doing excellent work!
I've been skiing the 2016 QST 99 188 as pretty much my one ski qiuver for 5 seasons now - resort and some very light touring laps (guardian binding lol). I've been extremely happy with it's performance in almost all conditions.
I'm thinking about upgrading to 2023 QST 106 189 + Shift.
How do you think it compares to my old ski for on piste skiing - groomers, moguls etc. I'm pretty sure it will be quite a bit better off piste, trees and side/backcountry which is my focus - just curious about piste skiing before I pull the trigger.
For context I'm 6'5'' 100kg advanced/expert.
Thanks, you're the best.
On-piste, it's pretty impressive. We skied it here in VT and out in Alta last year and loved how it carved a turn on firmer groomers. Sure, there are better options, but even compared to your old 99, the new 106 is a more sturdy and grippy ski even at a wider width. I'd feel pretty confident with this choice.
I'm 5'5 m and an expert level skier and enjoy longer skis and the 165 option is just about the top of my head. Do you think it would feel to short for me? I've comfortably riden on 172s for whole seasons and am looking for bit shorter ski where I can get into some more technical tighter freeride areas.
Sorry for the delay getting back to you. If you prefer longer skis, I feel like 173 might be the way to go, but if you're looking to maximize quickness for tight terrain, especially if you're relatively lightweight, 165 could work. I'm about 5'10 and 155-160 lbs and definitely prefer the 181 in the QST 106, just for some reference. Hope that helps and sorry for the delay getting back to you!
Great review guys! Ilove the 2022 model but I waited and just got the 20023 delivered. For some good reason I havd a good almost inmediatly connection with most of the QST series. Last year I got the Blank in Revelstoke and that ski is a game changer for me, so much fun and confidence!
So this year I'm planning to bring the QST 106 as my daily drive and the Blank for deep pow days. My question is, do you guys think that the QST 106 it my be the one ski does it all or bring both.
Last Revelstoke ski season the snow conditions were kinda of wierd due to the cold wave. Thank you guys for such a great review! Alohas from Maui!
Unless you get nailed with multiple feet of snow, I'd think the 106 is plenty. Even if you get a ton of snow, at least you got a ton of snow!
@@SkiEssentials Thank you!
i’m looking for my first touring specific setup. wont be doing anything to crazy in terms of vert, was thinking of getting the qst 106 / shift combo. are these 22/23 qst 106 updates worth the increase in price from last years model for touring specifically?
Hey John! That's a tough one for us to answer as it basically just depends on your personal financial situation. Is the new ski better? Yes, we think it is. Is the previous 106 still a good ski? Also yes, in fact, it's a great ski. Just because we like the new one more doesn't automatically make the previous version bad. Both are a ton of fun. So, if you've got a couple extra hundred dollars kicking around, go with the new one. If you're trying to stick to a budget, consider the 21/22 model, and put your savings towards trips, season passes, other gear, etc. Hope that helps!
What’s the weight and sidecut radius of the 189? And on a side note, what’s the elasticity of the strive binding?
We don't have one to measure/weigh, but based on the 181's g/cm weight, the 189 is 2067g/ski. For radius, I'd guess it's 20 or 21, but can't say 100% for sure. Salomon catalog does not list elasticity measurement for me, but after skiing it a few times, I can say that the 16 is great--very confidence inspiring. I've felt the elastic travel in the heel because I ski a lot of bumps, and have not released yet.
Been enjoying the ski reviews. Looking to buy my first set of skis after skiing a head rental my first season. I’m at an intermediate skill on the west coast 🇨🇦. Trying to decide between the qst 98/106. For a true one ski quiver what would be better?
Even though you're on the west coast and you probably have a good amount of soft snow, I still think the QST 98 is better one ski quiver. You're ultimately going to have a good amount of days that aren't soft snow days, where the 98 is going to be much more appropriate. When you do have fresh snow, it's still a lot of fun in the powder and certainly a huge increase in performance from rentals.
Thank you for the input. I’m feeling more confident with my decision now
How do these skis perform on jumps? I know they are not designed to be park skis, but I'm curious on how they feel on take off/landing because I do like to hit some jumps when its a slow day in the trees. Anyways, awesome review!
They're fine in the air, just on the heavy side if you're looking to add multiple rotations to your terrain park repertoire. Nice rocker in tips and tails gives it almost a twin tip feeling, just not quite. Have fun, great skis!
SE
Thanks for a great review! How would you compare QST 106 with Ripstick 106 Black?
The QST is more smeary and slarvy while the Elan is more directional in nature. If you're more of a playful skier, like to ski with the terrain, and want something that you can manipulate in deeper snow with greater ease, I think the QST makes more sense. If you're more of a fall-line skier who wants something that carves better, the Elan is amazing.
Hello!
How would you compare this to Blizzard Rustler 10? Im an intermediate skier, 6’1” / 175lbs. Looking for one quiver skis that is versatile (playful) and can perform fairly well on powder days. Located in Whister.
Thanks
QST 106 feels smoother in the powder due to the taper. I don't think it's as grippy on the groomers, as it has a slightly longer turn radius so doesn't quite hook up as much as the Rustler. For softer snow and powder, I love the QST, but for firmer stuff and some groomers mixed in, the Rustler is impressively versatile.
Thanks for the review guys. Bob, interested if you think the 189 would lose much in trees on the 181? Looking to replace my beaten up ‘17 188 106s which have excellent power to weight ratio, manoeuvrable and good float but maybe not as damp?
While I can't say I'd like the 189 specifically more in trees, there's no way I'd buy the 181 for myself. If I have to deal with a bit of extra ski in the trees, fine, but the 181 is kind of off the table for me in that ski. I liked it fine, but knowing that 189 exists, I'm all over that one. The new QST 106 over the 2017 is night and day. Sure, you're getting heavier, but the feel and overall technology is way better in my mind. Have fun!
SE/Bob
@@SkiEssentials What is your height? I´m 6´0 and not so sure about what to choose, 181 og 189, i´m used to 185 in volkl blaze 94 and Line opus. So kind of used to the in between range.
@@SkiEssentials I'm 6'1, 180, expert level and ski the 189. I skied the J Hotshot last year in 183 and even that was short. No issues making short turns, but I naturally make longer turns. You will not be disappointed with 189 on the reco line.
Hi there? Hopefully you guys are still answering questions on here, for Utah powder, would you take the Black Crows Atris or the QST 106 be a better ski? I want a ski that can also get down groomers on the off days. Does the QST 106 have better float than the Atris?
I personally find more float, precision, and power from the QST 106. The Atris is more of a blend of a freestyle ski with a freeride one, while Salomon really sticks nicely with the freeride sector. In my experience on both of these skis, the QST both floats and carves slightly better than the Atris.
I have qst 106's from 2017 or so (orange skis) and this 2023 ski seems to be moving back towards that era of the qst106. More taper in the outline, trending lighter again (I think they got heavier with every previous tweak), and even the tails seem to be trending back to the older qst's. I think that I like the changes as the shift binding/consolidated quiver seems more appropriate again. It would be interesting to evaluate the evolution of this ski throughout the years.
I saw an older QST 99 in the lift line today (same era that you're talking about with the 106), and it got me thinking the same thing. While I agree with you in terms of shape, overall the weight and burliness has increased. I think if you skied an original 106 versus the 2023, it would be pretty clear that you're on two very different skis, and that's what makes this all so much fun!
How are the QST compared with the new Ranger 108?
Would love to see you do some sort of top five ski in different categories like front side, allmountain wider, less wide and so on. It should be with all skis you tested and not just the new so a ski from 2020 could take place in it. Would really be fun to se that.
I like the idea of bringing past skis into the mix (especially if we still sell them)!
2nd that. Maybe add in two alternative ski choices per ski review. Just whatever first comes to mind
I’m alternating my Mantra 5’s & Black Rip 96’s when I face an assortment of crud, chopped freshies, and wind blow. Still looking for a specialty ski for POW days. I’m intrigued by the QST 106’s and the Black Crows Atris. 189’s. Any advice to help my short list get shorter?
Hey James! Both the QST 106 and Atris would be awesome. There are some updates to the Atris for the 22/23 season that actually align it quite closely with the QST 106. That said, I find the QST feels a touch stronger, especially noticeable when you let it run through chop. The Atris, on the other hand, feels a little bit more agile... it's a very bouncy, playful ski. Overall, I think it's fair to say those two skis are more similar than different, but those are the differences I feel.
I contemplated picking up a pair of the 2022’s from the shop in my neighborhood that had them on clearance back in March. I just couldn’t get past that drab green hue. How would that pair with my very orange Technica Mach 1 MV 130’s? Nah. I much prefer the looks of the 2023’s. Pair them with the soon to be released Salomon Strive 16 GW “lightweight resort rippers”. Yes indeed. Crud busting,floaty, with a high wiggle factor. I still crack up whenever I hear skiers agonize over searching for the Holy Grail… aka one ski quiver. I prefer having a diverse assortment of skis, boots, and attire. Especially since I’m visiting the same resort 50+ a season.
Heavily debating this or the Bent chetler 110 - 181 vs 180 - 20% touring inbounds and 80% resort - out west skiing, aspen, vail - thoughts?
The weight and sturdiness varies quite a bit. The Bent 110 is considerably more flexible than the QST, and also lighter. If touring efficiency is even remotely part of your intended experience, it's tough to look past the Bent 110, but since you're 80% on the resort, I can't help but feel the QST is a better choice overall.
The new tip shape reminds me of a more subtle BBR, and that's not a compliment :P buuuuut they seem like they'd work really well for what I want, so maybe I can forgive the shape; on my short list they go! Thanks for the review!
I didn't get a lot of BBR notes from this ski on snow--more DPS shape I'd say, making the taper stand out and giving the ski a whole lot of smoothness in the soft snow.
Planning to ski Stowe for the first time and I was wondering if anybody can tell me which part of the mountain or which trail is Jeff skiing in the woods at 15:10 of the video?
That little section is commonly referred to as "The Grill" and is found on the skier's right side of Nosedive after the S Turns. Great spot. Somewhat hard to find, but not too hidden.
Hi thanks for the review, QST 2022 (Green) vs. QST 2023 (white). QST 2022 (green) are now cheaper, but is it worth buying the more expensive QST 2023 (white) in your opinion. I am 195 cm tall and weigh 100 kg for me 181 or 188(9) ?
It's a more refined ski, the new one, but that doesn't mean the 2022 is all of a sudden a bad ski. It's great, and if you're looking to save some money, I say go for it!
Hi guys I'm heading to Schweitzer this winter, I heard that place what good soft snow.....So, normally I travel with two pairs......Head Core 93 and ....the option is QST 106 or the QST blank.
Thank you!
I think it's okay to go wide to complement the 93. The 106 would be fine, but why not get the best of both worlds from an all-mountain and freeride perspective?
Hey guys, thanks for making all these videos and blogs - they're really helpful. I live in CO and am a pretty solid intermediate. I can do all groomers and am venturing into moguls, trees, and ungroomed blues. Instructors had me riding a short length ski for habit building but now I'm looking for something to grow into. I also don't really have experience with skis wider than 87mm. I'm 230 lb and 6'2". I'm torn between QST 98, the 2022 qst 106s and the 2023 qst 106s. Also torn as to which length to get given my comfort level. I expect to mostly do groomers but want to expand. Any help would be appreciated!
Hi Richard! If you're just starting to explore off-piste terrain, I might go with the 98. That ski is going to be a little easier to get up on edge and probably an easier transition from your current skis. Going from a narrow ski like that to something as wide as the 106 can feel like a significant adjustment. While I'm sure you could do it, the 98 is likely a better choice for this point in your ski development. For length, 183 feels like a good choice. If that's considerably longer than anything you've skied before, you could go 176, but I think in the long run, you'd prefer 183. Hope that helps!
@@SkiEssentials Thank you! That's what I ended up going with: QST 98 @ 183
@Richard - how’s the QST 98 holding up with all of the snow this season. I have a VERY similar profile and I’ve been eyeing those two skis. Shops seem to want to push me wide but my gut is saying go with something a closer to 100mm and then get a proper pow ski like the QST blank when my skills are there.
@@miguel146diaz Hey there. I've been very happy with the qst 98s. I haven't skied a lot of powder in them but they've done well in 3-6 in. With 106s I would be more worried about icier conditions at the end of the day. The 98s have been great on groomers and a lot of fun for quick turns.
Thanks for the fast response!
Pretty broad question, so I'm hoping for some great input from all. First off, I'm an East Coast skier (VT and NY) and alternate between a JSkis Metal (186)-which I keep going back to-and a newly acquired JSkis Hotshot (183) that I can NOT get used to, I feel like it beats me up and I'm forward all the time. Both skis at only +1 too. Anyway, I'm abandoning the boutique brand and have decided to go with a Salomon-and I'm torn between the 106 and Blank (only because I have 2 106s and the local rep swears by the Blank, even in upstate). Right now, I feel like, the 106 at 189cm is my best choice, but what are the groups/experts thoughts?
HI Michael!
They kept a longer turn radius in the 106 while the Blank's shape leans towards the shorter arcs--that's the main difference. They both share very similar construction, so you won't notice a big difference in the feel/sound/character of either ski, but the radius is the big one. If you're in tighter woods more, and skiing at more moderate speeds, and want something wider than what you have, then Blank is fine, but the 106 is more well-rounded and a better fit for VT and NY conditions and terrain most/all days. I'd think the Blank would become your snow day ski while the 106 would be every day. From there, can view having multiple 106's as either a blessing or a curse, but we LOVED the 106 this year, every time. Hope that helps!
SE
Have you skiid 112 widths before? I've come to find them too "balanced" for them to excel at anything-too wide for groomers and too narrow for any real fun powder float (Unless you never get snow over 5"). Go for the 106 if you're culling your herd of 106's, but if you got ones you like and need to get a "east coast powder ski" then get the Blank (it's 112 right?).
@@jmanswat2457 I ended going with the new QST 106 and have not looked back. Skied it all season on the East Coast and took it to Silverton, CO for a few "backcountry" days. Where, honestly, it was bit long (189cm) in tight trees, etc. and a tad narrow in deeper pow-but all in all, incredible. I have not touched my Metal or Hotshot all year. Question for you: what size Blank are you on and how tall are you? I'm still planning to get a set, but have been told the 186 skis short. Which is what I think I want as I'm not surrounded by large, open terrain. And previously 186 was my longest ski and it felt good.
Hey guys! Not sure if you're still active in this comment section, but I was curious what your opinion was on how I could size these skis. I'm an intermediate to advanced skier who prefers loose snow and getting a bit off trail. I'm 6' and 200lbs, I was considering the 174cm but after seeing other comments I fee like I might be undersizing too much. Any opinions?
Sure are! We get a bit behind this time of year but try to keep up! I would not hesitate to downsize if you're in the middle on this ski. It's so incredibly fun and playful, but it also has a sturdy feel to it. If you're looking for more maneuverability and playfulness, that's also a good reason to take the 174. Have fun!
SE
Hey guys - almost a year on, hoping to see if people have a landed on a clear opinion here:
I’m a 5’11 167 lbs upper intermediate skier in the PNW/BC and trying to decide between the 106 and the 98 for a one ski quiver. I have demo’d the 106 but couldn’t do much “testing” and I have skid the old 99’s. I am going into more (short and easy) touring and thinking of putting shift bindings on the one I end up with. What do you all think?
Thanks so much for all the advice
I think for one pair, the 98 is the way to go. Even in deeper snow, that 98 is one of the better floaters out there due to the taper and rocker. I would size up if you're stuck in the middle in those skis, so I'd say the 183 would likely be the way to go. Have fun!
SE
IMO: Choose the 98 of you'll be skiing groomers more and want a lighter nimble ski everywhere. Choose 106 if you favor off piste, float and if your area gets 3"of snow every few days.
Great review, fellas. Any comments around mounting point?
I think most skiers will see this as a directional soft-snow ski, with the mount point on the line being the best choice. If you know something specific about how you want this particular ski to behave, then alter as needed.
I demoed them at +1 and felt like I was slightly ahead of where I should be on the ski, the shape and double sidewall seemed to be very well optimized for the recommended mount point. (-9). They still skied great at +1 but if I were to buy them I'd stick to the line
Hi I just picked up some Salomon qst 106 and will it still ski switch from the traditional mount?
There's a good amount of tail rocker. Even from traditional mount, I think you're getting good switch tendencies. Have fun!
SE
What lenght would you recommend? I‘m 6‘0 and 198 lbs. Thanks!!
Hey Clemens! How often are you in really deep snow? How aggressively do you ski? Certainly nothing wrong with sticking with the 181, especially if you prefer a more maneuverable ski, but at your size, especially if you say something like "often and very" to my 2 questions, you could justify bumping up to the 189...
I’m 5ft3in (~160cm), 160lb. Used to be Intermediate to advanced skier and ski in west (MT, CO). Just switching back to skiing after years snowboarding. What length you recommend? Is the 165cm too long for me?
Hi Jake!
I think that's on the long side, but not unattainable. You could also check out the QST Stella 106, the women's version. It's the exact same ski just with a different graphic and is available in the 157.
@@SkiEssentials thank you for getting back to me. Yeah I don’t love the color of the 157 or I may go that route. I ride a decent amount of powder, trees, and not much groomers so I was thinking 157 could be a bit small also at 160-165lb weight? Not a ton of good options in the 159-163cm at 99mm-107mm range. What do you think about the 161cm Icelandic Nomad 105? Or the 162 Fisher Ranger 102? Or the 165 Nordica Enforcer 104 Unlimited? I ski mostly western resorts, some sidecounty/backcountry, with focus on powder, trees, bowls, but want something good in crud, leftover choppy snow that can also carve down groomer when needed.
Was thinking to replace my Tracer 108 180s with these QST 106 181s, have Cast touring system with Look bindings. Thoughts?
Yup! Not quite as light as the Tracer, but very floaty, stable, and playful. For a mix of tour and resort, this is a fantastic option.
Is it insane for me to mount these at -3.5cms from true centre? I like doing (poor) nosebutter 5s and skiing switch. Ive loved my ARV106s at -2cms from true but obviously these are a much more directional ski. To replace my arvs106s ive gotten the qst106s as my whistler ski and the reckoner102 as my north vancouver local hill ski. Thanks for all your videos because they were a huge help in my decision making process!! Theres no chance I'm mounting the QSTs anywhere near as far back as factory recommended -9cms so a recommendation on the "furthest" forward you think I can get away with mounting these would be greatly appreciated!
Hey Sam! Would it be insane? No, not insane, but I would do some careful measuring to make sure you're not too far forward in the camber. What I often do is try to find the exact center of camber and use that as an indicator of "don't go further forward than that." Even then, sometimes I'll go as far forward as the line I've found and it still feels a little off.
I haven't played around that much on the 106, but I have moved the bindings on the Blank a little further forward and it felt just fine to me.
Ok final thoughts... I decided to go measure and I think you'll be just fine. Tail rocker is pretty long. -3.5 from true center seems fine to me. You shouldn't be too far forward in the camber, at least that's my opinion. I still think you should measure yourself and mark different lines (true center, center of camber, -3.5, factory recommended) just so you can have a better visual of what you want to do and whether you're comfortable with that decision or not.
@@SkiEssentials massively appreciate this help thank you very much! I done did it so I’ll let you know how they ride!
@@Spam1337so.... How are they? Did you keep the -3.6 from centered? I'm looking to mount mine at +1 or +2 from the line and am curious what you found
Yeah they absolutely rip mate I love them! My all mountain crushers. honestly really happy with where I mounted them. Ive used them heli skiing in japan, skiid baker and whistler in wet deep and then messed around with them on the local slushy north shore mountains and always been happy on them! I like skiing switch a lot so the further forward mount has helped. +1 or +2 forward from the line I think will be good for a lot of skiers!@@lincolndepagnier360
I did mount them +1.5 I think they ski great there. If you were super freestyle focused about freestyle performance I think you could go further forward but I think nobody would be upset at +1 or +2
I have a qst 106 with a shift binding, 20% touring 80% downhill and I find its a little tricky to turn in tight trees. Do you think it’s a good idea to remount the binding at +1 or +2 make it easier to turn?
Well, don't go chasing a ghost out there. If you move the binding forward, you're also adding more tail, which makes releasing the turns harder. Is it possible the ski is too long or that a 106 is just a lot of ski for tight trees?
How would you compare these to the Ranger 102 (Teal)? Float, grip, playfulness etc…
I'm a QST 106 fan for all of those attributes that you listed. I've never really found a connection to the Ranger 102, while the Salomon is very intuitive, easy to ski, and has a pretty high performance ceiling.
For Crud busting and edge hold on ice would you give the nod to the older 2022 ast 106 or newer 2023. Looking to bridge the gap between my 2022 enforcer 100's and my rustler 11's. Mostly skiing Alpine / squaw - Sierra cement.
The 106 is very floaty and fun, but lacks the top-end power of the Enforcer 110, which is just a very strong ski for crud and chop at speed. The 106 doesn't quite have the same speed limit, but when it comes to soft snow flotation and all-mountain versatility, the 106 is the best on the list. I'd say it's closer to the Rustler 11, but still not there.
First I wanted the 92s, and then the 98, and now I'm thinking about getting the 106's. I just turned intermediate last week in Lake Tahoe. Looking to purchase a 1 ski quiver. After testing a few skis, I kinda prefer the having to do more work and be more in control of the ski (wider skis) rather than having the ski feel lighter and do all of the work for you. I'm not sure yet though. What is the best way to describe how this differs from the 98?
ha! I love the start to this question.
The 98 is turnier than the 106. The shorter radius is due to the dramatic rocker profile and taper shape so you're actually getting a lot of flotation in the 98. The 106 likes to go a bit straighter and has a flatter tail that cuts through crud and chop quite well. The 98 is more drifty due to the longer and higher tail rocker.
@@SkiEssentials yeah for sure…after watching videos it’s apparent the 98s maneuverability is insane. Might be the better 1 ski quiver for all mountain whereas the 106 is more specialized
I am having trouble deciding between the QST 106 181cm and the 189cm. I am 5'11 200 lbs and consider myself an advanced to expert level. Any advice?
I think you'll be just fine on the 181 cm, unless you ski really fast. Bob and I were just chatting about that the other day in reference to another ski, and he mentioned how good the 181 cm QST felt for his size. Certainly more supportive of bigger skiers than a lot of skis in the same length. I think the only reason to go to 189 would be if you ski particularly fast.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks! You guys are the BEST!!
Hey guys, just wondering if you played around with the mount point at all? Thanks
Nope, been pretty satisfied with this ski on the recommended line!
Seems with every update to the QST 106 they give it more tail rocker. 2024 will be a straight twin tip
Full banana, right? It definitely gives the ski a smeary feel to it, even with the stiffer construction. It seems like they're moving the way they want, giving the 106 more of a playful/freestyle feel.
Twins are pretty fun.
We are taking about skis right?
Hi Bob & Jeff,
Thanks for the great review! You guys do a fantastic job with all your ski reviews! I was hoping to get some advice . . . I am going to purchase the QST 106, but I'm trying to determine what length I should purchase. I am debating between the 165 cm and the 173 cm length.
I live in California and Mammoth Mountain is my home ski resort. I am an advanced skier, weighing 165 lbs, 5'5" tall.
My current quiver consists of: 2017 K2 85ti 170cm, 2017 Volkl Mantra 170cm, 2022 Atomic Bent 100 164cm, 2023 Atomic Bentchetler 120 174 cm.
For the QST 106, any length recommendations and suggestions that you can provide would be greatly appreciated!
Best Regards,
Fern Campos
Thanks Fern!
I find this ski to be substantial enough to err on the shorter side. The 165 will feel like enough ski in all but the most rugged of conditions. My greater fear is that the 173 will lack mobility and since you have a wider option for full-on powder, it's nice to take advantage of the maneuverability of the shorter 106.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks for the great insight and advice!
I need a new ski. I ski pretty hard and like to carve. It is between the QST 98 and 106. I am putting a look pivot on and going to use the cast toe piece so I can tour. I am bases in Åre Sweden. Not so much powder but some. And it can be icy and hard snow on piste.
thanks in advance
I think your description points you to the 98. It's a great floater due to the rocker and taper, but it also holds a really nice edge when the snow gets firm. I think the 106 is awesome, but is more specific to softer snow and powder.
You guys are pretty much answering all my questions with these skis.. Waterskis is how I describe them. You were skiing the 181 length. I broke my arm on the 188 length and yes they were the 2022. If you guys ever ski the 189 length can you comment. That length and the fact that there were tons of people on the hill and I had to make tons of turns really wore me out. Even that length going through the trees could be rough. Even though it was a fluke that I snapped out of my bindings on the top of a mogul right before that I was kind of giving her and I could have wiped out. Tight trees, tight moguls might be too much for the 188/189 length... That 180/181 length might be perfect for all conditions..
When will you be reviewing the 2023 QST 98?
It's a carry-over ski for next year, so you can check the review we did for this year's!
ruclips.net/video/HYFboR9QA2U/видео.html
Serious question: QST 98 or 108 for someone that likes off trail but teaching my kids how to ski on trail. They both sound amazing. I am used to a longer ski but as I get older I am liking the playfulness of the Elan Rip Stick 98 that I am in now. Tuff choice here for me as a expert skier that likes some air still and off trail still but speed carves on groomers. :)
I'd go 98. It's a great ski and floats very well for its width. It's also one of the best tree skis I've been on, and still rips carved turns on groomers. This is no insult to the 106, which is phenomenal, but overall, the 98 has a whole lot going for it.
Get 106 if you're gonna keep the ripsticks-expand that quiver! Otherwise, 2nd on the 98s.
how dose this ski compaire o the Line Blade optic 104
The QST feels a bit more smeary and drifty than the Line, which quietly has a lot of metal in it. The Line is a bit more damp as a result, and you can really open it up in a straighter line than the QST which has more of a turny character.
Yo guys, I just ordered 189 length - my question is ? Did I make a mistake with that since I'm a 1.84cm/75kg skier. I had Soul7HD 188 few years ago and they felt really nice. Currently I have BentChetler 120 at 184 length. I bought them just to have a proper ski for every condition, not only for pow. Cheers!
I think the 189 is on the long side. It'll feel longer than your other skis at their respective lengths.
@@SkiEssentials thank you for your response! Well, I hope that they will be stable at speed and to have a good maneuverable response in tree sections. Its strange that they might feel longer, since the rocker is quite a lot there.
Qst 106 vs. M-Free 108? 🤙😬
The turn radius is the big difference. I think they're pretty equally floaty and fun, with the Dynastar having a tighter arc--that ski really feels like it wants to come around while the QST is a bit more comfortable in a straighter line. Both are damp and strong for being so powder-oriented, and it makes a lot of sense that these skis are so similar. If you want the ski to hook up and dance, the M-Free 108 is likely a better option.
these vs dynastar mfree 108?
Good one.
106 has more going for it as a one-ski quiver for snowy zones while the M-Free 108 needs a complementary pair. I think overall, I prefer the Dynastar for snowy days--it's more playful and rockered and floats insanely well. The QST is strong and stable but not quite as freeridey. Generally, though, they both have very similar feel and personality. Tough call, but I think I'd lean to the 108 personally, it's just too wide and rockered for a daily here in Vermont, while the 106 is closer. Have fun!
SE
going to compliment my ripstick 96 black!
would you guys ever consider doing a lib tech ski review?
Definitely would consider it! We're all about getting on different brands. Right now we don't have direct access to Lib Tech and we're not a dealer, but certainly would be interested to get on them.
So long story short i need to throw my 2020 qst 106x188 in the garage and buy the new new
YES! Not really, but you COULD!
As someone who bought a set of blanks this year I don't think this shape makes any sense in anything other than a pow ski.
The 106 certainly operates at a very high level in the powder, especially versus other skis of the same width.
Nice to see weird Jeff pop his head out from time to time.
I can get weirder!
This model should be 2022, because we are in the start of 2022, I do not understand this.
It's an early release of a 2022/23 ski. This ski wasn't available at the start of the current ski season.