I hope the ski manufacturers are aware of how helpful and professional your testing and video and written technical descriptions are to both customers and guys that work in ski shops. I am one of those shop guys👍⛷
Volkl Kendo 88: I demoed so many skis that I started get disheartened. Then finally the Kendo 88. I loved them so much I had to purchase them. They are easy to turn, great on firm snow, such a fun ski! Loved skiing on it in trees as I felt I could turn exactly when and where I wished to turn. Patrick.
Excellent review and comment on the 2020 Kendo 88. I just purchased them in late 2019 and am headed out to ski Alta and Snowbird next week. I've been skiing for 40+ years, and LOVED your review, comment and suggestions regarding this ski. I still ski most anything on the mountain, though at my age, I tend to dial back my intensity a bit. Your suggestions about how to best leverage this ski's abilities, is so helpful, as I still love learning how to get the best of of my new equipment and to maintain my ability to ski some of the more challenging terrain out West. Thank you Glenn
The kendo 88 is an absolute knife on harder pack snow, it *loves* to turn. It is not a ski for slashing, smearing etc which should seem obvious, it just wants to turn and turn and turn. It is a killer. Everything he says about it being precise, purposeful etc is true. You must be on your game and pay attention when riding these. If you do you are richly rewarded.
Great skis! Been using mine for a week now and I´m very impressed. Very precise as stated in the review. You get rewarded for putting effort into your skiing. I´m a heavy skier, 95kilos and do not have to work too hard with the Kendos. A lot of reviews talk about going very fast with these. Fast is great and extremely stable, but I feel the precision also at low speed. If you are determined and go over difficult snow and turn on uneven surfaces, even at low speed, the Kendos obey your smallest move and are stable as a freight train, but lively and quick. Love them!
I have a set of 2015 Kendos I love so much I'm thinking of adding another set of 88s so I have two pair to alternate during the winters. I hear the 88s are everything I love about my Kendos but even better! Can't wait.
Hi Jeff I have to ask could you compare Kendo 88 with Enforcer 88? Differences/similarities? Any info you could tell me would be a great help! Thanks!!
Figured people would want to know about that ;) The Enforcer 88 feels damper and a little smoother, not quite as responsive as the Kendo 88. I think the Enforcer 88 also makes a nice round turn, really fun and pretty easy to link carving turns on it. The Kendo 88, with the 3D Radius, wants to be driven more if you want to get it into similar turns, but on the other hand it'll make longer turns than the Enforcer 88 more easily with the 30 m tip and 24 m tail. Very similar comparison as Enforcer 100 to M5 Mantra, although the 3D Radius changes the conversation a bit. Smoothness vs responsiveness is the easiest way I can describe the difference. Not that the Enforcer 88 is un-responsive, but in my opinion that's the biggest difference.
I bought the enforcer 88 and have only tried them 1 day in pretty terrible slush so I can't speak much for them yet. But I'm debating trying these instead. I'm 6'2, 265 lbs and the Enforcer feels like it might have a little more flex than I'm used to.
Thankful to your review I bought the kendo 2019 some months ago and they are simply amazing!, and again, thankful to this review I will for sure buy the new 2020 if I can afford it! Or maybe win a pair! 😁 Anyway thanks for the reviews which are the best detailed in the web! Good job Skiessential
How does this compare to Rossi Experience 88 Ti, which is also sort of on-piste-focused all-mountain skis? The Rossi feels great on groomers in general, but for 2019 they tried to make it more manoeuvrable in trees and bumps. I'm also interested in what you mean by 'precise'. Are you referring to the ski's sensitivity to skier's input, or its ability to hold a line, or something else entirely? Thanks for your continued effort in churning out these detailed reviews! Very helpful for the rest of us who don't have a chance to try the multitudes of skis that come out every year.
Hmmm... My instincts are 184, but I think it comes down to what terrain you'll be skiing most often. If groomers, 184 would be more beneficial, but if you're taking them off trail too, 177 would be more agile and quicker...
Hey guys.. I did a demo of the Blaze 94s 172 and loved them. I may go with them but somebody told me to try he Kendos as well. Can you tell me what the difference is? Thanks.
truly appreciate the extensive information you share. it would be great to publish a comparison of Kendo vs Mindbender 90Ti and a test of 90eight vs Vantage 97C vs Prime 2.0 vs Navis, thanks
The closest thing we have to that would be the 90 mm all mountain comparison, or 95-100 mm comparison. Not exactly what you're looking for, but we do talk about quite a few of those skis.
I have Kendos, and tried the Mindbenders which were also very, very stable but more dampened and not so lively. You could argue that the Kendos are a little more nervous, but I would call Kendos more responsive and precise. Mindbenders-calm and stable, Kendos-precise and stable, both great at all speeds, including really fast.
The Orb is a little more playful than the Kendo 88, while the Kendo is more stable at speed, more powerful, and has better vibration damping. It's also heavier than the Orb.
The Marker Griffon or Marker Jester would be pretty ideal. That's the intended binding to use with the Kendo 88 if you ask Volkl, and we stand by the performance of both of them. The Griffon is plenty of binding for most people, so you likely don't need to jump up to the Jester.
Not necessarily. The Kendo 88 is a stable, powerful ski. You generally can ski it in shorter lengths without it feeling unstable. If you're a particularly aggressive skier who likes to ski really fast, 170 cm might be a little short, but that's really only if you're charging. Otherwise, it will be just fine, and more maneuverable/less fatiguing than the longer lengths.
Hey Jeff I’m not sure if you sell them , but have you skied Rossi Black Ops (either waist width) seems like a fun ski ( probably more your style, who doesn’t love smearing a ski) our Rossignol rep is beating me up to demo one, love to hear your thoughts.
I've skied both widths, yeah. We have them at our brick and mortar shop, just not online. It's definitely a lot of fun. I think they made some improvements compared to the Slat, their previous mid-fat twin tip. They're stable, but not too heavy. They're fun, super smooth, really easy to pivot and smear. Fairly similar to the Soul Rider 97 (I ski that a good amount), but a little heavier and damper.
Is the 2020 Kendo more playful and easier to push into shorter turns than the 2018 version? Does it offer more tail release and more float in the soft snow? I'm not clear how people ski this thing in moguls, because at my 70 kgs, well trained, I'm having a hard time making short turns.
A little bit, yeah, but not tremendously different. It's still a pretty challenging ski. Similar feel in tail release, but it is a little bit lighter, which helps make it less fatiguing.
@@SkiEssentials I'll have to give it a shot with a proper boot (Tecnica Cochise 120). Because the La Sportiva Spectre 2.0 has a pretty vertical stance, and this is not helping with tail release for shorter turns and moguls on the Kendo. How about the softsnow, does it float a bit better?
@@h3x0r1984 Skiing it with the Cochise instead of your La Sportiva boots will definitely help! Fairly similar float. It's actually 2 mm narrower underfoot now. If you want more float, I'd consider going with the M5 Mantra.
We didn't have a ton of opportunities to take into the trees, but we have, yes. Basically everything we said about moguls carries over to trees. If you're an advanced skier with good technique, they're not too challenging, but it would be asking a lot for an intermediate, that's for sure.
I can't really say that one of those skis is better than any of the others, although there are some differences. Kendo 88 is probably the most versatile. Widest along with the Brahma 88, but its shape and flex pattern makes it a touch easier to ski in un-groomed terrain than the Brahma. The Brahma 88 is also versatile, but not as easy. On the other hand, it feels a little bit burlier. The Deacon 84 feels the lightest and most responsive. Plenty of edge grip, but it's a little quicker than the rest of these skis. The Brahma 82 feels a lot like the 88, but quicker edge to edge (obviously). It's also really fun in bumps if you have reasonably good technique, again partly because it's quicker than the 88, but you lose some of the 88's ability to handle choppy, softer snow conditions. I genuinely can't rank them as every skier is a little different and everyone values different performance in their skis.
You don't want to go too short, as that would be too unstable for your weight. Probably 170 cm. Have you been on skis that long before? In theory you could ski the 163 cm, which is about your height, but 170 cm is more appropriate for your weight.
Thank you for getting back to me. I am on 178 now. I would like to go shorter but not too short as you recommend. I will demo both lengths. THe charts on line with my weight have me skiing 191. My first pair 39 years ago was 210.
They are not twin tips in the freestyle sense of the term, but if you're looking to do moderate switch skiing, they'll do it just fine, just so long as the snow is smooth.
First of all, I love the content of this channel. However, I'm also currently very torn between skis because of it. Could I get a comparison or just a response about Kendo 88, Enforcer 88, and Brahma 88? Brahma 82??? I'm a ski patroller in the east, and ski vastly hard-pack groomers. I love to make powerful carving short , medium, and long range carving turns in my own time, but i need to pivot quickly while transporting patients, and I also want something that can handle all mountain conditions. I've watched all of the videos and read all of the articles that you guys have produced on each of those skis, including the 2020 90mm all mountain ski review, but they seem to be pretty close. Here's what I've gathered. Brahma 88 Weight - 2 Full sheets of metal Shape - Conservative rocker, but longest edge contact for a locked in feel while carving, but a ski that needs more input in deeper snow Vibration Dampening - Great vibration dampening due to 2 full sheets of metal Carve - Most carve-centric, with longest camber and edge contact Pivot - Heavy swing-weight due to 2 full-metal laminates, and longest camber, so requires a lot of technique to pivot quickly Kendo 88 Weight - Focused a slightly more on weight reduction, and is more responsive because of it Shape - Ample, but subtle rocker that leads to more edge grip while giving more power into the turn, but still releasable in the turn and in deeper snow. 3D turn radius allows for more flexibility in turn shape. Carve - Still carves great, due to 3D turn Radius and detached metal top-sheet extensions, and still a significant amount of metal laminate extending in the horseshoe edge shape, creating good dampening and torsional rigidity. Pivot - Lightest swing-weight, and with subtle early rocker, there for, easiest to pivot quickly while smearing Enforcer 88 Weight - 2 Full sheets of metal Shape - Early/aggressive rocker leads to less edge contact, but more versatility in deep snow Vibration Dampening - Great vibration dampening due to 2 full sheets of metal Carve - Most "smooth" or forgiving, but also tallest camber under foot, so snaps out of turns which creates power in the turns and still holds its edge well on hard-pack. Pivot - Heavy swing-weight due to 2 full-metal laminates, but earliest/most aggressive rocker, and there for, easy to pivot quickly while smearing Please feel free to correct me about any of that or give me any more opinions on these choices. Thanks a lot! Keep making these stellar videos!!
I replied to your comment over on the Enforcer 88 video too. I'm between the Enforcer 88 and Kendo 88 for you. Both could definitely work. Kendo feels a little more precise, Enforcer feels a little more versatile. Happy to chat more about it if you want to get in touch with us directly.
Demo'd the Kendo at Whistler recently. Conditions were marginal at the time. I was on the 170 length. My own skis were V 5 stars from some years ago. I'm 170 lbs expert level skier. I demo'd 4 different skis back to back on the same day and found the Kendo 88 to be very stable in crud with surprising super edge holding. It was significantly less "tiring" to spend time on this ski as it translated such confidence and stability everywhere. It was a quieter ski in the front end than some I was on and didn't have as much of a metal/mechanical/hollow chatter as others that I tried. (Atomic for instance). Definitely felt the different radii of the turn potential depending on how hard I worked it. The front end turn initiation was very crisp and precise when on steeper pitches. I had no issues in the bumps although worked a little harder to get it out of the turns in that terrain as I could feel the rear end of the thing holding on a bit longer than some skis. This ski is currently at the top of my list for purchase this season. Thought it was a terrific all mountain ski. Paul
Great review as always Jeff, funny those who ski Volkls know, holds like a Volkl and these new designs are true to that. I’ve skied the M5 and like it for sure. Like that the put the camber back into the ski. Wish it was a little bit more lively (but I also wish the Rustler 10 had a little more snap as well) this coming from a guy that skis the Bonafide through trees and bumps, so what the heck do I know. That tip seemed planted on the hard pack, then again it’s a Volkl. Keep dropping the knowledge.
So, assume I ski nearly exactly like you, and I'm about 15 pounds heavier. I ski Head i.GSR or i.SLR when I wanna rip on groomers, but I have a pair of the previous Kendos for my all-mountain, just out having fun ski that I would like to update with something newer. Let's say you can only own one pair: Kendo 88, Dynastar Legend x88, or Head Kore 93, which would you spend your $ on? Thanks much for the all the awesome videos!
In this scenario, do I also already own those Head skis? If yes, I would probably go Kore 93, just for the most versatility out of my whole quiver. You've already got some ripping carving skis, so in my opinion it would make sense to add a more maneuverable all mountain ski. The Kore 93 is a blast for trees, moguls, etc, so it would round out your quiver nicely. Does that make sense?
@@SkiEssentials Yes, perfect sense. Thanks. I'm inferring from your answer that the Kendo are more similar to a traditional on-piste ski, with some maneuverability engineered in, which is what my current Kendo are. Cambered skis with metal construction are my comfort zone, it's just what I grew up on and what I'm used to. So, I tend to shy from skis that even smell like "free-ride", but the Kore 93 seem to be breaking some barriers based on all the glowing reviews, so I'll have to find a pair to demo!
Yesterday I just demoed the new 2020 Enforcer 88 - it's an incredible ski - it has race ski levels of hold but is also highly maneuverable. It is not however Head Kore 93 light but if I had to take 1 ski anywhere to ski on the East Coast that would be the ski.
I'm torn between the M5 Mantra and the Kendo 88. Im 6'1 215lbs. I ski mostly Northern Michigan, with what I hope to be a yearly trip out west. I'm not the most aggressive skier, but I'm advancing in my abilities nicely! Would the bit wider under foot help with stability?? or would the 88 be more suited for the skiing that I do in MI?
Hi Jason! I'd go Kendo 88, considering where you live and ski mostly. Still perfectly capable when you go out west, but a little better overall on firm snow. The new 3D sidecut design is really cool, too. For length, either 177 or 184 cm. What lengths have you been on in the past? 184 cm is pretty manageable, shouldn't be too challenging for you unless you've been on much shorter skis in the past.
Depends how aggressively and fast you like to ski. That length should work fine, unless you really like to charge and push the limits of speed. In that case, I'd bump up to the 184 cm.
I rented these for a week in april. You can push them realy hard from offpist to icy steep walls and they keep you on rails. As you state they are very precise. These skiis are for strong legged experts then you will get most out of it. Push them hard and stay on edge and you get rewarded with a great ride. Very responsive and quick skiis. (note: unstable riding flat pist, not designed for it).
It's a pretty significant difference. The Kendo feels much heavier, more powerful, and stiffer. It's not as nimble as the Kanjo, which is one of my favorite things about that ski. On the other hand, it's way more stable at speed.
@@SkiEssentials Nice, thanks for reply. I choose it cuz I thougth it would be a good allrounder. If i can ask, i had volkl rtm75 before this... Wich would a preferly good carving ski for long turns be. The rtm75 felt a bit soft at the front. I ran 70 ski cards upp to now. A slow ski for nice carving long turn in wide slopes listening to Jamiroquai in blue/red. Just for the carving. Apart from that I use salomon x-pro 100. 186cm tall 94kg. Is it true that if the ski is shorter like going down from 173 to 168, it would be easier to carve? Something midd class price.
@@zarmusic8155 An easy-going, relatively-long-radius carving ski? Hmmm... that's a bit of a tough one. Maybe a Blizzard Firebird Competition 76? It's tough because typically long radius carving skis are built stiff and for high speeds. A shorter ski is easier to initiate, yes, but it's not going to give you a long turn shape and they also lack stability at speed. Does that make sense? How do you feel on your Kanjo? Do you think you could handle a heavier ski? The Kendo 88 has a much longer turn radius, so maybe that's what you're looking for. Let me know what you think.
I like the kanjo, but i thougth/belive its easier to carve with a carving ski, since the bindings are taller upp. I use the kanjo everywhere, bumps, jumps, moguls, wheelie, some carve, i like how they absorb when i jump and land on the back of the skies, reminds me of my rockshox damper on my bicycle. I alsow belive the smaller they are in the mid section like 70 its easier to carve, but i have no idea... Its just when i google for what i ask for, i havent found the answer... Wich type of ski is best to boogie carving while listening to Jamiroquai. Like dancing in blue groomed lanes. Super cruisin...So when its -8 degres and open sky. Those skies would be right, and when its fresh snow, i do kanjo... Met a ski bum who told me 90% doesnt know how to carve, so I figured. Better get the proper ski for it, and make it easier. Many of the 10% rest went to ski clubs. I wonder. @@SkiEssentials The ski dont need to be particular fast. I mean, its more about the carve. But I dunno, what I really look for. Or most of all, best ski to carve with. I took a look at the blizzard... Says fast. What they mean, if its slow its soft and hard to carve with?
@@zarmusic8155 You should look for a relatively short radius ski designed for carving. That's going to help pull you into a turn more than your Kanjo. From Volkl, The Deacon 80 could work too, but I still think that Firebird Competition would be a lot of fun for you too. I'd focus on a turning radius no greater than 15 m. Go short, but not too short for length, you don't want to give up too much stability.
Ski essentials needs new demonstrators. They do not block their upper body and project their center of mass down the hill. Therefor, they can't properly evaluate short radius turns. They need to get advanced ski school lessons. They also have problems with their hip release from turn to turn and their angulation is mixed with inclination. They are decent skiers but need to rise to the next level. I've had many advanced skiers like the demonstrators in advanced ski clinics and know what is missing in their ski technique. Advanced skiers are ALWAYS the most difficult to progress to the next level since they are stuck in their technique and think lessons are for beginners or intermediate level skiers. I do like Volkl skis for their energy. However, you must know how to capture the energy and apply it downhill and not into vertical rebound (at least on hard snow). I'm not a big fan of rockers since it wants to make the skis swivel and not carve. However, rocks are good for difficult ski conditions such as chunky Spring ice conditions. Glad to hear Volkl is going back to a more traditional cambered ski.
Incredible really that you feel a need to criticize the best FREE reviews and solid, detailed answers to everyone's gear questions on the internet. You must be a lot of fun to be around.
I hope the ski manufacturers are aware of how helpful and professional your testing and video and written technical descriptions are to both customers and guys that work in ski shops. I am one of those shop guys👍⛷
Thanks! It means a lot you're finding them useful. Thanks for the kind words!
Volkl Kendo 88: I demoed so many skis that I started get disheartened. Then finally the Kendo 88. I loved them so much I had to purchase them. They are easy to turn, great on firm snow, such a fun ski! Loved skiing on it in trees as I felt I could turn exactly when and where I wished to turn. Patrick.
Excellent review and comment on the 2020 Kendo 88. I just purchased them in late 2019 and am headed out to ski Alta and Snowbird next week. I've been skiing for 40+ years, and LOVED your review, comment and suggestions regarding this ski. I still ski most anything on the mountain, though at my age, I tend to dial back my intensity a bit. Your suggestions about how to best leverage this ski's abilities, is so helpful, as I still love learning how to get the best of of my new equipment and to maintain my ability to ski some of the more challenging terrain out West.
Thank you
Glenn
Thanks Glenn! So glad you find our videos useful. Have fun at Alta and Snowbird!!!
The kendo 88 is an absolute knife on harder pack snow, it *loves* to turn. It is not a ski for slashing, smearing etc which should seem obvious, it just wants to turn and turn and turn. It is a killer. Everything he says about it being precise, purposeful etc is true. You must be on your game and pay attention when riding these. If you do you are richly rewarded.
Great skis! Been using mine for a week now and I´m very impressed. Very precise as stated in the review. You get rewarded for putting effort into your skiing. I´m a heavy skier, 95kilos and do not have to work too hard with the Kendos. A lot of reviews talk about going very fast with these. Fast is great and extremely stable, but I feel the precision also at low speed. If you are determined and go over difficult snow and turn on uneven surfaces, even at low speed, the Kendos obey your smallest move and are stable as a freight train, but lively and quick. Love them!
"You get rewarded for putting effort into your skiing."
Yes! Hit the nail on the head. Such a good ski and rewards good skiing, which I like.
fantstic ski. loving every second on it. totally capable on icy gromers as well as crud!! totally recommend it
It's all about your body mass and POWER witch will determine how easy it is to flex the ski.........
I have a set of 2015 Kendos I love so much I'm thinking of adding another set of 88s so I have two pair to alternate during the winters. I hear the 88s are everything I love about my Kendos but even better! Can't wait.
How do you activate the three different radii?
Hi Jeff I have to ask could you compare Kendo 88 with Enforcer 88? Differences/similarities? Any info you could tell me would be a great help! Thanks!!
Figured people would want to know about that ;)
The Enforcer 88 feels damper and a little smoother, not quite as responsive as the Kendo 88. I think the Enforcer 88 also makes a nice round turn, really fun and pretty easy to link carving turns on it. The Kendo 88, with the 3D Radius, wants to be driven more if you want to get it into similar turns, but on the other hand it'll make longer turns than the Enforcer 88 more easily with the 30 m tip and 24 m tail. Very similar comparison as Enforcer 100 to M5 Mantra, although the 3D Radius changes the conversation a bit. Smoothness vs responsiveness is the easiest way I can describe the difference. Not that the Enforcer 88 is un-responsive, but in my opinion that's the biggest difference.
I bought the enforcer 88 and have only tried them 1 day in pretty terrible slush so I can't speak much for them yet. But I'm debating trying these instead. I'm 6'2, 265 lbs and the Enforcer feels like it might have a little more flex than I'm used to.
Pretty close between the two in overall flex pattern. I do think the Kendo can feel a little stiffer, but not much.
What ski boot for kendo 88?
Thankful to your review I bought the kendo 2019 some months ago and they are simply amazing!, and again, thankful to this review I will for sure buy the new 2020 if I can afford it! Or maybe win a pair! 😁
Anyway thanks for the reviews which are the best detailed in the web! Good job Skiessential
Yes the 2020 model are awesome!!!
Agree responsive and precise (skiing in tress), great for carving and confidence inspiring!
How does this compare to Rossi Experience 88 Ti, which is also sort of on-piste-focused all-mountain skis? The Rossi feels great on groomers in general, but for 2019 they tried to make it more manoeuvrable in trees and bumps.
I'm also interested in what you mean by 'precise'. Are you referring to the ski's sensitivity to skier's input, or its ability to hold a line, or something else entirely? Thanks for your continued effort in churning out these detailed reviews! Very helpful for the rest of us who don't have a chance to try the multitudes of skis that come out every year.
Low advanced skier, 183cm/ 95kg. Kendo 88 in 177 or 183?? Thanks.
Hmmm... My instincts are 184, but I think it comes down to what terrain you'll be skiing most often. If groomers, 184 would be more beneficial, but if you're taking them off trail too, 177 would be more agile and quicker...
Hey guys.. I did a demo of the Blaze 94s 172 and loved them. I may go with them but somebody told me to try he Kendos as well. Can you tell me what the difference is? Thanks.
Kendos are going to feel a lot heavier than the Blaze 94. Heavier, more stable at speed, but not nearly as agile or maneuverable.
Great review; bought the ski from you guys in Mar; skied great but need more runs after covid
Here's to a great 2020/21 season!
truly appreciate the extensive information you share.
it would be great to publish a comparison of Kendo vs Mindbender 90Ti and
a test of 90eight vs Vantage 97C vs Prime 2.0 vs Navis, thanks
The closest thing we have to that would be the 90 mm all mountain comparison, or 95-100 mm comparison. Not exactly what you're looking for, but we do talk about quite a few of those skis.
I have Kendos, and tried the Mindbenders which were also very, very stable but more dampened and not so lively. You could argue that the Kendos are a little more nervous, but I would call Kendos more responsive and precise. Mindbenders-calm and stable, Kendos-precise and stable, both great at all speeds, including really fast.
Hey, how does it compare to the black crows orb?
The Orb is a little more playful than the Kendo 88, while the Kendo is more stable at speed, more powerful, and has better vibration damping. It's also heavier than the Orb.
what bindings are recommended for the kendo 88?
The Marker Griffon or Marker Jester would be pretty ideal. That's the intended binding to use with the Kendo 88 if you ask Volkl, and we stand by the performance of both of them. The Griffon is plenty of binding for most people, so you likely don't need to jump up to the Jester.
i'm 178 cm tall, i found a good deal for volkl kendo 88 in 170. do you think that will be to small for me?
Not necessarily. The Kendo 88 is a stable, powerful ski. You generally can ski it in shorter lengths without it feeling unstable. If you're a particularly aggressive skier who likes to ski really fast, 170 cm might be a little short, but that's really only if you're charging. Otherwise, it will be just fine, and more maneuverable/less fatiguing than the longer lengths.
@@SkiEssentials thanks for the answer.now , just waiting until next year to run a test. But i bought very cheap, 120 e without fix. :-)
Hey Jeff I’m not sure if you sell them , but have you skied Rossi Black Ops (either waist width) seems like a fun ski ( probably more your style, who doesn’t love smearing a ski) our Rossignol rep is beating me up to demo one, love to hear your thoughts.
I've skied both widths, yeah. We have them at our brick and mortar shop, just not online. It's definitely a lot of fun. I think they made some improvements compared to the Slat, their previous mid-fat twin tip. They're stable, but not too heavy. They're fun, super smooth, really easy to pivot and smear. Fairly similar to the Soul Rider 97 (I ski that a good amount), but a little heavier and damper.
Is the 2020 Kendo more playful and easier to push into shorter turns than the 2018 version? Does it offer more tail release and more float in the soft snow?
I'm not clear how people ski this thing in moguls, because at my 70 kgs, well trained, I'm having a hard time making short turns.
A little bit, yeah, but not tremendously different. It's still a pretty challenging ski. Similar feel in tail release, but it is a little bit lighter, which helps make it less fatiguing.
@@SkiEssentials I'll have to give it a shot with a proper boot (Tecnica Cochise 120). Because the La Sportiva Spectre 2.0 has a pretty vertical stance, and this is not helping with tail release for shorter turns and moguls on the Kendo.
How about the softsnow, does it float a bit better?
@@h3x0r1984 Skiing it with the Cochise instead of your La Sportiva boots will definitely help! Fairly similar float. It's actually 2 mm narrower underfoot now. If you want more float, I'd consider going with the M5 Mantra.
@@SkiEssentials Yeah, the M5 is great, but very pricey for a "training ski". My main focus is free-touring, that's where my budget gets focused. :D
@@h3x0r1984 Only a $50 difference between Kendo 88 and M5, but I hear ya!
Weird hollow sound when you where skiing those bumps. But love ur videos. Keep me coming
Thanks! Always looking to improve outdoor audio!
SE
Test it in trees? Seems like it might be hard to manuever when things get tight based on your overall review - ?
We didn't have a ton of opportunities to take into the trees, but we have, yes. Basically everything we said about moguls carries over to trees. If you're an advanced skier with good technique, they're not too challenging, but it would be asking a lot for an intermediate, that's for sure.
Great to ski in trees I found as they are precise and very maneuverable.
Torn between kendo 88, deacon 84, Brahma 88, and Brahma 82.. any way you could rank those for an east coaster? 190#, aggressive, mostly piste.
I can't really say that one of those skis is better than any of the others, although there are some differences. Kendo 88 is probably the most versatile. Widest along with the Brahma 88, but its shape and flex pattern makes it a touch easier to ski in un-groomed terrain than the Brahma. The Brahma 88 is also versatile, but not as easy. On the other hand, it feels a little bit burlier. The Deacon 84 feels the lightest and most responsive. Plenty of edge grip, but it's a little quicker than the rest of these skis. The Brahma 82 feels a lot like the 88, but quicker edge to edge (obviously). It's also really fun in bumps if you have reasonably good technique, again partly because it's quicker than the 88, but you lose some of the 88's ability to handle choppy, softer snow conditions. I genuinely can't rank them as every skier is a little different and everyone values different performance in their skis.
Beautiful review - as always!
Thanks!
What length do you recommend for an advanced skier? 5’4” 230lbs....
You don't want to go too short, as that would be too unstable for your weight. Probably 170 cm. Have you been on skis that long before? In theory you could ski the 163 cm, which is about your height, but 170 cm is more appropriate for your weight.
Thank you for getting back to me. I am on 178 now. I would like to go shorter but not too short as you recommend. I will demo both lengths. THe charts on line with my weight have me skiing 191. My first pair 39 years ago was 210.
Are these considered twin tips? Can you ride backwards on them?
They are not twin tips in the freestyle sense of the term, but if you're looking to do moderate switch skiing, they'll do it just fine, just so long as the snow is smooth.
First of all, I love the content of this channel. However, I'm also currently very torn between skis because of it. Could I get a comparison or just a response about Kendo 88, Enforcer 88, and Brahma 88? Brahma 82??? I'm a ski patroller in the east, and ski vastly hard-pack groomers. I love to make powerful carving short , medium, and long range carving turns in my own time, but i need to pivot quickly while transporting patients, and I also want something that can handle all mountain conditions.
I've watched all of the videos and read all of the articles that you guys have produced on each of those skis, including the 2020 90mm all mountain ski review, but they seem to be pretty close. Here's what I've gathered.
Brahma 88
Weight - 2 Full sheets of metal
Shape - Conservative rocker, but longest edge contact for a locked in feel while carving, but a ski that needs more input in deeper snow
Vibration Dampening - Great vibration dampening due to 2 full sheets of metal
Carve - Most carve-centric, with longest camber and edge contact
Pivot - Heavy swing-weight due to 2 full-metal laminates, and longest camber, so requires a lot of technique to pivot quickly
Kendo 88
Weight - Focused a slightly more on weight reduction, and is more responsive because of it
Shape - Ample, but subtle rocker that leads to more edge grip while giving more power into the turn, but still releasable in the turn and in deeper snow. 3D turn radius allows for more flexibility in turn shape.
Carve - Still carves great, due to 3D turn Radius and detached metal top-sheet extensions, and still a significant amount of metal laminate extending in the horseshoe edge shape, creating good dampening and torsional rigidity.
Pivot - Lightest swing-weight, and with subtle early rocker, there for, easiest to pivot quickly while smearing
Enforcer 88
Weight - 2 Full sheets of metal
Shape - Early/aggressive rocker leads to less edge contact, but more versatility in deep snow
Vibration Dampening - Great vibration dampening due to 2 full sheets of metal
Carve - Most "smooth" or forgiving, but also tallest camber under foot, so snaps out of turns which creates power in the turns and still holds its edge well on hard-pack.
Pivot - Heavy swing-weight due to 2 full-metal laminates, but earliest/most aggressive rocker, and there for, easy to pivot quickly while smearing
Please feel free to correct me about any of that or give me any more opinions on these choices.
Thanks a lot! Keep making these stellar videos!!
I replied to your comment over on the Enforcer 88 video too. I'm between the Enforcer 88 and Kendo 88 for you. Both could definitely work. Kendo feels a little more precise, Enforcer feels a little more versatile. Happy to chat more about it if you want to get in touch with us directly.
Demo'd the Kendo at Whistler recently. Conditions were marginal at the time. I was on the 170 length. My own skis were V 5 stars from some years ago. I'm 170 lbs expert level skier. I demo'd 4 different skis back to back on the same day and found the Kendo 88 to be very stable in crud with surprising super edge holding. It was significantly less "tiring" to spend time on this ski as it translated such confidence and stability everywhere. It was a quieter ski in the front end than some I was on and didn't have as much of a metal/mechanical/hollow chatter as others that I tried. (Atomic for instance). Definitely felt the different radii of the turn potential depending on how hard I worked it. The front end turn initiation was very crisp and precise when on steeper pitches. I had no issues in the bumps although worked a little harder to get it out of the turns in that terrain as I could feel the rear end of the thing holding on a bit longer than some skis. This ski is currently at the top of my list for purchase this season. Thought it was a terrific all mountain ski. Paul
Great review as always Jeff, funny those who ski Volkls know, holds like a Volkl and these new designs are true to that. I’ve skied the M5 and like it for sure. Like that the put the camber back into the ski. Wish it was a little bit more lively (but I also wish the Rustler 10 had a little more snap as well) this coming from a guy that skis the Bonafide through trees and bumps, so what the heck do I know. That tip seemed planted on the hard pack, then again it’s a Volkl. Keep dropping the knowledge.
So, assume I ski nearly exactly like you, and I'm about 15 pounds heavier. I ski Head i.GSR or i.SLR when I wanna rip on groomers, but I have a pair of the previous Kendos for my all-mountain, just out having fun ski that I would like to update with something newer. Let's say you can only own one pair: Kendo 88, Dynastar Legend x88, or Head Kore 93, which would you spend your $ on? Thanks much for the all the awesome videos!
In this scenario, do I also already own those Head skis? If yes, I would probably go Kore 93, just for the most versatility out of my whole quiver. You've already got some ripping carving skis, so in my opinion it would make sense to add a more maneuverable all mountain ski. The Kore 93 is a blast for trees, moguls, etc, so it would round out your quiver nicely. Does that make sense?
@@SkiEssentials Yes, perfect sense. Thanks. I'm inferring from your answer that the Kendo are more similar to a traditional on-piste ski, with some maneuverability engineered in, which is what my current Kendo are. Cambered skis with metal construction are my comfort zone, it's just what I grew up on and what I'm used to. So, I tend to shy from skis that even smell like "free-ride", but the Kore 93 seem to be breaking some barriers based on all the glowing reviews, so I'll have to find a pair to demo!
Yesterday I just demoed the new 2020 Enforcer 88 - it's an incredible ski - it has race ski levels of hold but is also highly maneuverable. It is not however Head Kore 93 light but if I had to take 1 ski anywhere to ski on the East Coast that would be the ski.
“Oh Gosh!”
Yup, definitely a ‘2020’ ski
Left a sub, great content and improvement
Thanks so much!
I'm torn between the M5 Mantra and the Kendo 88. Im 6'1 215lbs. I ski mostly Northern Michigan, with what I hope to be a yearly trip out west. I'm not the most aggressive skier, but I'm advancing in my abilities nicely! Would the bit wider under foot help with stability?? or would the 88 be more suited for the skiing that I do in MI?
Hi Jason! I'd go Kendo 88, considering where you live and ski mostly. Still perfectly capable when you go out west, but a little better overall on firm snow. The new 3D sidecut design is really cool, too. For length, either 177 or 184 cm. What lengths have you been on in the past? 184 cm is pretty manageable, shouldn't be too challenging for you unless you've been on much shorter skis in the past.
Great video I bought em
I’m 6’1 200lbs. Advanced/expert wondering if the 177 is the right size.
Depends how aggressively and fast you like to ski. That length should work fine, unless you really like to charge and push the limits of speed. In that case, I'd bump up to the 184 cm.
I rented these for a week in april. You can push them realy hard from offpist to icy steep walls and they keep you on rails. As you state they are very precise. These skiis are for strong legged experts then you will get most out of it. Push them hard and stay on edge and you get rewarded with a great ride. Very responsive and quick skiis. (note: unstable riding flat pist, not designed for it).
Thanks for sharing!
Unstable on flat piste could be something as simple as the tune on the ski but hey they’re volkls. If you’re not on them they’ll spank you.
Super helpful video! Thx!
Skiing the M5 this year. It rips. The Kendo is built the same with triple radius. I'm in.
how much difference between kanjo and kendo, my 2 year with kanjo.
It's a pretty significant difference. The Kendo feels much heavier, more powerful, and stiffer. It's not as nimble as the Kanjo, which is one of my favorite things about that ski. On the other hand, it's way more stable at speed.
@@SkiEssentials Nice, thanks for reply.
I choose it cuz I thougth it would be a good allrounder. If i can ask, i had volkl rtm75 before this... Wich would a preferly good carving ski for long turns be. The rtm75 felt a bit soft at the front. I ran 70 ski cards upp to now. A slow ski for nice carving long turn in wide slopes listening to Jamiroquai in blue/red. Just for the carving.
Apart from that I use salomon x-pro 100. 186cm tall 94kg. Is it true that if the ski is shorter like going down from 173 to 168, it would be easier to carve? Something midd class price.
@@zarmusic8155 An easy-going, relatively-long-radius carving ski? Hmmm... that's a bit of a tough one. Maybe a Blizzard Firebird Competition 76? It's tough because typically long radius carving skis are built stiff and for high speeds. A shorter ski is easier to initiate, yes, but it's not going to give you a long turn shape and they also lack stability at speed. Does that make sense?
How do you feel on your Kanjo? Do you think you could handle a heavier ski? The Kendo 88 has a much longer turn radius, so maybe that's what you're looking for. Let me know what you think.
I like the kanjo, but i thougth/belive its easier to carve with a carving ski, since the bindings are taller upp. I use the kanjo everywhere, bumps, jumps, moguls, wheelie, some carve, i like how they absorb when i jump and land on the back of the skies, reminds me of my rockshox damper on my bicycle. I alsow belive the smaller they are in the mid section like 70 its easier to carve, but i have no idea... Its just when i google for what i ask for, i havent found the answer... Wich type of ski is best to boogie carving while listening to Jamiroquai. Like dancing in blue groomed lanes. Super cruisin...So when its -8 degres and open sky. Those skies would be right, and when its fresh snow, i do kanjo... Met a ski bum who told me 90% doesnt know how to carve, so I figured. Better get the proper ski for it, and make it easier. Many of the 10% rest went to ski clubs. I wonder. @@SkiEssentials
The ski dont need to be particular fast. I mean, its more about the carve. But I dunno, what I really look for. Or most of all, best ski to carve with. I took a look at the blizzard... Says fast. What they mean, if its slow its soft and hard to carve with?
@@zarmusic8155 You should look for a relatively short radius ski designed for carving. That's going to help pull you into a turn more than your Kanjo. From Volkl, The Deacon 80 could work too, but I still think that Firebird Competition would be a lot of fun for you too. I'd focus on a turning radius no greater than 15 m. Go short, but not too short for length, you don't want to give up too much stability.
and great review btw !!!
Anyone tried the kendo 92 as a comparison?
Ski essentials needs new demonstrators. They do not block their upper body and project their center of mass down the hill. Therefor, they can't properly evaluate short radius turns. They need to get advanced ski school lessons. They also have problems with their hip release from turn to turn and their angulation is mixed with inclination.
They are decent skiers but need to rise to the next level. I've had many advanced skiers like the demonstrators in advanced ski clinics and know what is missing in their ski technique. Advanced skiers are ALWAYS the most difficult to progress to the next level since they are stuck in their technique and think lessons are for beginners or intermediate level skiers.
I do like Volkl skis for their energy. However, you must know how to capture the energy and apply it downhill and not into vertical rebound (at least on hard snow). I'm not a big fan of rockers since it wants to make the skis swivel and not carve. However, rocks are good for difficult ski conditions such as chunky Spring ice conditions. Glad to hear Volkl is going back to a more traditional cambered ski.
How about you just go somewhere else?
Incredible really that you feel a need to criticize the best FREE reviews and solid, detailed answers to everyone's gear questions on the internet. You must be a lot of fun to be around.
Bro most people aren’t professional skiers that work in the ski shop business, these guys give great advice for the non pros