Switching over to these as my dedicated touring ski. Coming off the 189 Armada Norwalk (2013) I can't wait to have something much more forgiving and manageable in the variable conditions we see here in the Sierra. Mounting with a Dynafit Radical TLT. Thanks for posting such a thorough review, really helped me make my decision!
I skied this ski quite a bit last year, both n the resort and AT, all in Utah. Not as beefy as the Corvus, which is one of my favorite skis, but surprisingly capable in all conditions. Great all rounder, more forgiving than the Corvus and a bit lighter on the up.
Hi, I’m 6’5” (270 lbs) and looking for a telemark ski. Will use mostly on resort hills.....need it to be relatively light to skin up and want an all mountain ski for on the way down....mostly groomers, some tree runs. Currently looking at Black Crows Navis, Armada Tracer 98, DPS Alchemist Wailer......or anything else you’d recommend......need it to be highly maneuverable, easy to initiate turns but stable through crud. Thanks for the feedback
I actually think this Navis Freebird could be a really good choice for you. I don't think the Tracer or Wailer has the flex pattern to support your size. The Freebird feels a little stiffer throughout, which I think will work well for your size and your specific application. Its shape also works really well for groomers. I'd also check out the Fischer Ranger collection. The 99Ti or 102FR could be good choices too. Not quite as light, but a little more stable at speed, which could be a reasonable tradeoff depending on which performance you value more.
hi guys, Thanks again for another great review! I changed my mind from the atomic backland 100. I went to the store and they recommended me this ski with a Fritschi Tecton 12 binding or the DPS cassiar 94A with a atomic shift binding as a heavier set up. I am skiing on the Fischer ranger 130 boots. I really trust you guys so I was wondering what your opinion would be to get what set up? I will go back tomorrow to buy one of the two, so really curious about your opinion. In the store they recommended the DPS. The prices are the same approximately here at the moment with sale black Friday, so that is not something to take into account. Cheers from munich, Jacob
Hey Jacob! The Cassiar isn't a ski I generally recommend for touring, mostly because of its shape. DPS designed that line more for firm snow. What about Navis Freebird with the Shift? I don't know if that's complicating things even further, but I do think that ski and binding combination would match your 130 flex boots really well, and in general I'd rather ski the Navis than the Cassiar as a touring ski... Does that make sense to you? I just keep getting hung up on the Cassiar...
@@SkiEssentials thanks for the quick reply! It definitely complicates it a little more haha, but it makes sense though! In the store I was they said those two shouldn't be put together, but maybe I will still do it anyway. I will make my decision today, thanks for the help! cheers
@@jacobjasper6269 I can't really think of a reason they wouldn't go together. I suppose someone could think the Shift is kind of heavy for the Navis, but I don't think that's necessarily true. There's no right or wrong, in my opinion.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks very much for the advise guys! In the end I chose the DPS with the shifts, so hope did not make a mistake by not listening to you haha. looking forward to your next videos! cheers, Jacob
Hi, I watch so many of your reviews, very helpful thanks. Can you confirm the major differences between the Navis and Navis Freebird please? I know the Navis is discontinued but they are still for sale in Europe at a discounted price. I really want a ski for 50/50 inbound/off-piste. I am an athletic 168cm in height, 66kg, intermediate/advanced skier who currently skis the Rissoignal Sky HD 7 in a 164cm. I use these with a light dynafit binding for touring so really looking for something a little different for inbound / lift-served off-piste. I plan to pair the Navis/Freebird with a Shift binding. Many thanks in advance! Steve
The normal Navis is a little stiffer and heavier. Good ski, very good edge grip, very responsive and gives the skier a lot of feedback regardless of the conditions you're skiing. I think it would be a great choice for you to pair with an alpine binding and use in the resort. Very nice complement to your Sky 7 as the Navis has far less rocker and taper. We had a lot of fun testing it. Obviously it's been discontinued and essentially replaced by skis like the Justis and Serpo, but it's still an excellent ski.
Hi, I’m replacing my Blizzard Bonafides for something lighter for some touring. I’ll be putting Shift bindings on and I’m looking for something that I can still carve on piste, but that’s good fun and a bit more play full off piste (all in Europe). Would you recommend this ski? Thanks!
Hey Charlie! For sure, the Navis Freebird would work really well for that. I really the Corvus Freebird as well. It's a little more powerful, in my opinion, so something to consider since you're coming off the Bonafides. It's wider, of course, but figured I'd throw it out there.
HEy, thanks for your great review. I am thinking about getting myself the Navis Freebird. But I am unsure what length i should choose. I am 175,5 cm (without shoes) but I am very light (62kg) and an advanced skier. Mostly I wanna use ist for touring but also some days at the piste and backcountry. Thx in advance
HI AB! I'd go with the 173 in that ski. Great for both touring, resort, and bc. They're light, so that's my only hesitation for going shorter, but if you're at all unsure about the 173, I think the 167 will be fine.
I want to get a Black Crows ski as a dedicated off piste / powder / freeride touring ski. Not sure between the Camox Freebird, Navis Freebird, Corvus Freebird. With the length i'm not sure - i'm 180cm 200lbs and ski a Blizzard Brahma 82 comfortably in 180cm. Currently have the Brahma 82 for the all mountain and will be getting a dedicated piste ski soon so just need something for everything else although I do like the 82 off piste too.
I find the Corvus Freebird feels a little stronger and slightly more well-rounded than the Navis Freebird. Navis is lighter, but not as stable at speed and its shape isn't as versatile, at least in my opinion. Camox gets quite a bit narrower, not as capable in deep snow. If it's a powder off-piste touring ski, Corvus makes the most sense I think. Most stability, most float, and still lightweight. For length, I'd go 183.
@@SkiEssentials Haha I must be stalking you too hard! 107 is a really wide ski for me so I'm not sure. Could it really handle all kinds of off piste conditions - not just powder? I'm more used to race skis and my all mountain 82 Brahma. That's why I was thinking 96 Camox. The stronger Corvus does sound good though if I can get used to something that wide. I think even 100mm feel massive to me.
Really curious to get your thought on this ski vs the Corvus Freebird/Corvus. I am 6'3" and 205 lbs and charge pretty hard. I have J Skis Masterblasters with Look Pivots as my daily driver and am looking for a new ski to add to my quiver that will replace my 10 year old Salomon Guns with BD Fritschi Freerides as my touring ski. I will do in bound tours with these skis in the Northeast as well as some backcountry days in some NH/ME glades and an occasional Mount Washington tour. The Black Crow Corvus Freebird is not that much lighter than the Corvus, but feel like it might be a great touring ski and double as a powder ski for the Northeast. The Navis Freebird feels a little more duplicative of my Masterblaster in bound but at a much lighter weight ski I'd be worried about skiing it on the variable conditions in the resort and in the backcountry in the Northeast. Thoughts?
Hey Scott! My immediate reaction is the Corvus Freebird is probably the best ski for you here. Just based on how you describe your skiing and your size. The Corvus Freebird is going to be more stable and just more supportive for you. Not the lightest ski in the world, but in my opinion certainly light enough, and as you mention would double as a powder ski for the northeast. I have a few friends local to Stowe, VT that use that ski for the same exact application as you're going to and love it. I would be a little concerned you'd find the Navis Freebird to be too unstable at your size and on certain conditions. Would it work? Of course, but I'm not convinced it's the best ski for you.
Depends a little on your ability and skiing style. My instinct is to recommend the 184, which should be the way to go if you're a relatively advanced/athletic skier.
Hi, i'm 172 and 140 lbs. I'm looking for a new backcountry touring ski and i think this one is great. But i'm wondering which lenght i should choose, 167 or 173. I would use the ski for touring only and my skills are advanced. Thanks for the feedback!
I would go with the 173. It's lightweight and easy to handle. I think having the extra length would be more beneficial than any added maneuverability of the 167.
Hi, im actually in a struggel. Until now i did everything with the Dynafit Tour 88. The focus were on mountaineering higher mountains. But now i would like to focus more the downhill. The Problem - that ski should work for a longer uphill too. I know, the camox would be the better solution but i i dont like the style (i know its dumb, but i cant wear a red ski). So the Solution is the black crows orb or the navis. (Or nothing from Black Crows :(... but its a dream of mine to have one of this one... Really hard decision for me.. Maybe u can help me 😬
I think if you're specifically looking for more downhill performance, the Navis would be better, at least I think that's what I would do if I were you. There will be a more noticeable difference in the downhill performance vs your current skis, and more fun in soft snow and stuff like that.
I'm looking for a quiver of one ski, the Atris, Navis Freebird or Corvus Freebird I had in mind. How do they compare to resort, which might be most fun & versatile there?
Hi Daniel! I'd say the Corvus Freebird is the most well-rounded out of those skis. The Navis Freebird leans a little more towards the touring side of things. Corvus is a little heavier, and a little stronger for skiing within the resort. The Atris, on the other hand, feels more like a powder-specific ski. I'd only choose it as a daily driver if you're frequently skiing soft snow conditions.
Is this a good ski for an expert skier who skis blue groomers, black moguls, and double black hike to terrain? I am looking for an expert level all mountain ski . Thanks!
It could certainly work for that application, yes! It's definitely an expert-level ski, and would be particularly good for that hike-to terrain due to its weight and soft snow performance.
How stable are these at fast speeds and on harder snowpacks? In Britain so most of the snow will be fairly hard. Looking at these for a touring set up with either Shifts or Mwerks but coming from a racing background I'm unsure if these will hold up when charging. Cheers
Pretty darn good for a ski this light! It'll get deflected a little easier than a heavier ski, but considering how light it is, the stability is quite good. I think anyone looking for a relatively stable touring setup would be happy with them.
Hi, I live on the east coast and do majority of my skiing in NE but tend to only ski decent days after and around storms. I also take a trip out west every winter. I am looking to get into the black crow lineup but am confused which ski I should choose. I am a hard charging skier and My skiing is 75% resort, 25% tours. I have a cast touring binding I would be using. I want something that would be a great ski in deep snow in tight glades at jay, be capable of being semi enjoyable on groomers and fun floating in deep west coast big mountain powder. I recently broke my soul 7s and want something more sturdy. Is the Atris too wide for a "versatilish" NE ski and too heavy for the occasional tour?
Hi James! The Atris could work. Heavier than this Navis Freebird, but still light enough for touring. I have a local friend using the Atris with a Shift binding here in the Stowe area and has been loving it. I recently skied the Atris personally and while it's not tremendously quick edge to edge, it is still fun on groomers. Definitely more sturdy than the Soul 7. If that's an important characteristic, I think it's arguably better for you than the Navis just for that sturdy, strong factor.
Hey! I'm 173cm and 100 lbs, intermediate ability, mostly ski in resort touring and backcountry. I'm wondering orb freebird or Navis freebird, which one is better for me? And if the 167 would be the best for me? Thanks for advice!
Hi Lu! I would probably go for the Navis Freebird. If you're in the backcountry, you're going to encounter variable conditions, that's just how it goes. Having a little bit extra width underfoot really helps when things get deep or just when it's variable and you have go to from wind-buffed/firm to soft and back again. And yes, I would go for the 167 cm length. Hope that helps!
Hello, I'm looking for a touring ski which I could also use as a freeride resort ski (50/50). The backcountry I ride when touring is mainly tight trees (Quebec - East Coast). I''m considering the Navis Freebird, the Camox Freebird as well as the Atomic Bentchetler 100. Could you please give me your feedback on these options (any choice would be mounted with an atomic shift binding). I'm 6'1, 190 pounds and an advanced skier. Thanks for the feedback !
I think the Navis Freebird would be a really good choice. To me it feels more versatile than the Camox Freebird, which I think you'll appreciate having. The Bent Chetler works, but it's heavier than both the Black Crows, and if you're going to be doing a significant amount of touring, I think you can justify the lighter ski.
Hi, cannot decide between the Ferox freebird, the camox and the navis.... I’ve lately found good powder days in Italy these days, and had fun with 107 skis, but with a very heavy setup to carry after 8000 vertical meters in few days. I don’t mind taking a bit more to reach the summit, I just want to enjoy the descent. In the last days has been very windy and found less powder and more crust, tatto is what we can find here especially towards the end of the season. Which one of the 3 skis would you suggest as the perfect weapon?
I think the Navis might be the ticket. In my opinion, it's the most well-rounded out of those skis. The Ferox is cool, but at 110 mm underfoot, it has its limitations on firm snow. The opposite is true in regards to the Camox. Navis feels like the perfect sweet spot. Light enough for the ascent, good in powder, but also can handle wind-buffed snow, crusty conditions, etc.
Hi there ;) would like to know the difference between the navis freebird and the kastle tx103, i really don't know wich one to choose, they looks really similar, do we have this metal plate under the foot in the TX103? thks for your help ;)
Hi there! I'm thinking of switching out my 18' Camox Freebird 183 for the Navis Freebird in 179 and I'd like to hear your thoughts. I am 179, 91kg. Snow conditions where I live are usually variable. I'm looking for a ski that has the stability in speed I find in the Camox, but thats more playfull, forgiving and easy to turn at lower speed/tight sections/choppy, variable snow. I feel the tail of the Camox can be a bit of a job to turn in tight, slow situations. Can the Navis offer the stability I find in the Camox when charging, but also give me a easier time turning in crusty/choppy snow at slower speeds? The Camox are my go to skis forthe touring/backcountry skiing I do. For the deep days I have a second pair (Pescado = a whole lotta fun). I like a medium weight touring setup with focus on the downhill and have 2-3 days in the lifts per season. Are there any other skis I should check out? Sorry for the long post! Cheers, Paul
Hey Paul! Yeah, I do think you'd prefer the Navis Freebird over the Camox Freebird from everything you've said. It's interesting, as in the non-Freebird versions, the Camox feels really loose because it uses a lot of tail rocker, but it's quite a bit different on the Camox Freebird. Should retain the stability you like, or even increase it, and I think you'll find the tail release is a lot easier, or at least noticeably easier, on the Navis.
I am thinking of going with the Navis Freebird or the Atomic Bent Chelter 100 with some shift bindings as my new touring/resort ski for this year. How would you compare these two? I know they are similar in weight but the shape and construction looks fairly different. Would you have any recommendations?
Are you doing a review of the wayback 106? I'm trying to decide between the navis freebird and that (with a salomon mtn pure), and trying to mentally balance the extra weight on the navis for down performance vs. the extra width and lesser weight on the wayback 106. I'm looking for a spring ski / multiple day tour / not sure what conditions will be ski (I have a heavier freetouring setup already, reckoner 112 + salmont shift, so I'm telling myself a corvus freebird doesn't make sense, but I'm not sure). I'm a relatively big fit dude (6'4" 200lbs) so I may be overthinking the weight difference and should just get the corvus fb.
Hey! Thanks for the great insights about the skis. I am about to complete my first touring set and I am hesitating between orb, navis and Corvus. I used to be more of a snowboarder and I switched to skiing 2 seasons ago to be able to do more touring and off piste riding however I still enjoy a ride on the slopes :). What would you recommend for a 173 cm / 150 lbs Lady who “wants to have it all” with a focus on touring and off piste ? Ps. I am based close to the Alps if that matters for the choice :). Cheers, Justyna
I think among those 3 skis, in the Freebird line, the Navis or the Corvus is the way to go for that application. The Orb is really light and won't give you as much stability or soft snow versatility as those other two skis. The Corvus is the best in deep snow, and the strongest too. Navis kind of splits the difference, and is arguably a more precise ski just due to the fact it has less rocker and less splay. Quite a few skiers here in Northern Vermont ski the Corvus Freebird for that same application and love it, some touring, some resort, but the Navis could definitely work too if you want to stick with a slightly lighter ski. Our mountains are much smaller, but we actually have similar snow conditions. Looking at lengths, the Navis might make more sense for you, as that 173.4 cm length feels like it would work really well for your size.
@@SkiEssentials Many thanks 😊 yes after having a little bit of reading I am also heading towards the Navis. I ll try to test it in the next opportunity and decide if it’s a good Match. I appreciate your help ✌🏻
Curious about length- 5’10” 140lbs ski an all mountain park ski at 171 and love it but can definitely ski something longer, just wonder if 173 is gonna be on the shorter end of the spectrum. Thoughts?
I've been looking into the Corvus, Navis, and Elan Ripstick Tour 88. I'm 6'2" and 250 pounds, I ski a lot of resorts, but want the flexibility to do some backcountry skiing as well. What would you recommend?
Not the Ripstick 88--that's more of a dedicated tour ski. Navis is the one that has more of the 50/50 mentality that I think you're looking for, I'd go that route. Regular Corvus is quite a handful.
Hi guys, thanks for the super reviews! I was thinking about buying the Blizzard Zero G 105. How would you compare this Navis with Blizzard? And Atomic Backland 100? The intended use would be almost completely free touring and I would love to get the most out of powder. However, since I am from Italy (Dolomites), we pretty often have different kind of snows. I am 185cm for 75-80kg, advanced skier, which size would you suggest? And finally, I was thinking about Marker kingpin bindings, would you recommend or better something else? I personally prefer sacrificing a little bit weight for better performances downhill. Thanks!
Hi @Skiessentials.com, I was going to write the exact same question. My apologies Pietro, to hijack a bit your question ;-), but I have exact the same sizes and ski also in the European mountains. I am looking for a 2 ski quiver setup. My other pair are rustlers 11 with kingpins. The intended use of the lighter freetour ski will be multiple days of touring (but does not need to be incredible light), skiing some steeps and be capable to handle not the best snow. I want to use quiver killers to share my kingpins and save some money.
The Zero Gs have always felt particularly smooth to me, one of the smoothest in that weight range. Navis feels a little more responsive, as does the Backland 100. To be honest, I enjoy skiing all 3 of them, and personally own a Zero G 95. For length... I actually might consider going with the 188. I went with the longest length in the 95 (185) and I'm a little bit smaller than you. To me the Kingpin feels like a great choice. I'm in the same boat, usually willing to sacrifice some weight for better downhill and I've had great success with the Kingpin. Guy, for you, since you already have the Rustler 11, I wonder if it makes more sense to go with a narrower ski, like maybe the Zero G 95? The 105 feels like it's getting a little too closer to your Rustler 11 in width.
Hi @@SkiEssentials , once again, thanks a lot for your comment. For sure, this is a valid remark about the width. But I don't think I want to go below 100. I am planning some tourtrips (up to 5 days) in the future and I want this ski for this (lighter then the rustler 11). I want to fully enjoy the descents in every condition, especially some pow :-) if present. And my other criteria, steeps, which ski of these 3 will be a good choice for this purpose? Or non of them ..
I really want to buy this ski but I'm hesitating between the 173.4 and the 179.1 version. I am 175 tall and will use this ski only for touring all around the mountains. I usually have more of an agressive skiing style which would be a pro for the 179.1 version. Nevertheless I feel like 4cm to 5cm plus my height is much for a touring ski. Any suggestions? Great videos btw.!
I feel like 173.4 kind of makes more sense for a touring ski, although realistically I'm sure you could ski both lengths and would have fun on both. Just kinda feels like overkill going with the 179.1. Hope that helps!
If I recall correctly, Black Crows had a Dynafit Rotation 12 on there. That ski belonged to Black Crows and since shooting, we've sent it back to them. I could find out for sure if you'd like?
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Switching over to these as my dedicated touring ski. Coming off the 189 Armada Norwalk (2013) I can't wait to have something much more forgiving and manageable in the variable conditions we see here in the Sierra. Mounting with a Dynafit Radical TLT. Thanks for posting such a thorough review, really helped me make my decision!
Sweet! That's going to be an awesome setup. Glad the video helped with your decision!
I skied this ski quite a bit last year, both n the resort and AT, all in Utah. Not as beefy as the Corvus, which is one of my favorite skis, but surprisingly capable in all conditions. Great all rounder, more forgiving than the Corvus and a bit lighter on the up.
Hi, I’m 6’5” (270 lbs) and looking for a telemark ski. Will use mostly on resort hills.....need it to be relatively light to skin up and want an all mountain ski for on the way down....mostly groomers, some tree runs. Currently looking at Black Crows Navis, Armada Tracer 98, DPS Alchemist Wailer......or anything else you’d recommend......need it to be highly maneuverable, easy to initiate turns but stable through crud. Thanks for the feedback
I actually think this Navis Freebird could be a really good choice for you. I don't think the Tracer or Wailer has the flex pattern to support your size. The Freebird feels a little stiffer throughout, which I think will work well for your size and your specific application. Its shape also works really well for groomers. I'd also check out the Fischer Ranger collection. The 99Ti or 102FR could be good choices too. Not quite as light, but a little more stable at speed, which could be a reasonable tradeoff depending on which performance you value more.
Hi guys! Thank you for the great review and for all answers here. Really appreciate it. Hugs and love from Russia
hi guys,
Thanks again for another great review!
I changed my mind from the atomic backland 100. I went to the store and they recommended me this ski with a Fritschi Tecton 12 binding or the DPS cassiar 94A with a atomic shift binding as a heavier set up. I am skiing on the Fischer ranger 130 boots.
I really trust you guys so I was wondering what your opinion would be to get what set up? I will go back tomorrow to buy one of the two, so really curious about your opinion. In the store they recommended the DPS. The prices are the same approximately here at the moment with sale black Friday, so that is not something to take into account.
Cheers from munich,
Jacob
Hey Jacob! The Cassiar isn't a ski I generally recommend for touring, mostly because of its shape. DPS designed that line more for firm snow. What about Navis Freebird with the Shift? I don't know if that's complicating things even further, but I do think that ski and binding combination would match your 130 flex boots really well, and in general I'd rather ski the Navis than the Cassiar as a touring ski... Does that make sense to you? I just keep getting hung up on the Cassiar...
@@SkiEssentials thanks for the quick reply! It definitely complicates it a little more haha, but it makes sense though! In the store I was they said those two shouldn't be put together, but maybe I will still do it anyway. I will make my decision today, thanks for the help!
cheers
@@jacobjasper6269 I can't really think of a reason they wouldn't go together. I suppose someone could think the Shift is kind of heavy for the Navis, but I don't think that's necessarily true. There's no right or wrong, in my opinion.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks very much for the advise guys! In the end I chose the DPS with the shifts, so hope did not make a mistake by not listening to you haha. looking forward to your next videos!
cheers,
Jacob
Hi, I watch so many of your reviews, very helpful thanks. Can you confirm the major differences between the Navis and Navis Freebird please? I know the Navis is discontinued but they are still for sale in Europe at a discounted price. I really want a ski for 50/50 inbound/off-piste. I am an athletic 168cm in height, 66kg, intermediate/advanced skier who currently skis the Rissoignal Sky HD 7 in a 164cm. I use these with a light dynafit binding for touring so really looking for something a little different for inbound / lift-served off-piste. I plan to pair the Navis/Freebird with a Shift binding. Many thanks in advance! Steve
The normal Navis is a little stiffer and heavier. Good ski, very good edge grip, very responsive and gives the skier a lot of feedback regardless of the conditions you're skiing. I think it would be a great choice for you to pair with an alpine binding and use in the resort. Very nice complement to your Sky 7 as the Navis has far less rocker and taper. We had a lot of fun testing it. Obviously it's been discontinued and essentially replaced by skis like the Justis and Serpo, but it's still an excellent ski.
Hi, I’m replacing my Blizzard Bonafides for something lighter for some touring. I’ll be putting Shift bindings on and I’m looking for something that I can still carve on piste, but that’s good fun and a bit more play full off piste (all in Europe). Would you recommend this ski? Thanks!
Hey Charlie! For sure, the Navis Freebird would work really well for that. I really the Corvus Freebird as well. It's a little more powerful, in my opinion, so something to consider since you're coming off the Bonafides. It's wider, of course, but figured I'd throw it out there.
HEy, thanks for your great review. I am thinking about getting myself the Navis Freebird. But I am unsure what length i should choose. I am 175,5 cm (without shoes) but I am very light (62kg) and an advanced skier. Mostly I wanna use ist for touring but also some days at the piste and backcountry. Thx in advance
HI AB!
I'd go with the 173 in that ski. Great for both touring, resort, and bc. They're light, so that's my only hesitation for going shorter, but if you're at all unsure about the 173, I think the 167 will be fine.
I want to get a Black Crows ski as a dedicated off piste / powder / freeride touring ski. Not sure between the Camox Freebird, Navis Freebird, Corvus Freebird. With the length i'm not sure - i'm 180cm 200lbs and ski a Blizzard Brahma 82 comfortably in 180cm. Currently have the Brahma 82 for the all mountain and will be getting a dedicated piste ski soon so just need something for everything else although I do like the 82 off piste too.
I find the Corvus Freebird feels a little stronger and slightly more well-rounded than the Navis Freebird. Navis is lighter, but not as stable at speed and its shape isn't as versatile, at least in my opinion. Camox gets quite a bit narrower, not as capable in deep snow. If it's a powder off-piste touring ski, Corvus makes the most sense I think. Most stability, most float, and still lightweight. For length, I'd go 183.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks, I'm mostly based in the alps if that changes anything. If not I'll go with that recommendation.
@@MadelnMachines That's what I assumed. I remembered your location correctly! Hooray me! lol
@@SkiEssentials Haha I must be stalking you too hard! 107 is a really wide ski for me so I'm not sure. Could it really handle all kinds of off piste conditions - not just powder? I'm more used to race skis and my all mountain 82 Brahma. That's why I was thinking 96 Camox. The stronger Corvus does sound good though if I can get used to something that wide. I think even 100mm feel massive to me.
Can you guys review the orb freebird? I'm wondering if its similiar to the navis
Really curious to get your thought on this ski vs the Corvus Freebird/Corvus. I am 6'3" and 205 lbs and charge pretty hard. I have J Skis Masterblasters with Look Pivots as my daily driver and am looking for a new ski to add to my quiver that will replace my 10 year old Salomon Guns with BD Fritschi Freerides as my touring ski. I will do in bound tours with these skis in the Northeast as well as some backcountry days in some NH/ME glades and an occasional Mount Washington tour. The Black Crow Corvus Freebird is not that much lighter than the Corvus, but feel like it might be a great touring ski and double as a powder ski for the Northeast. The Navis Freebird feels a little more duplicative of my Masterblaster in bound but at a much lighter weight ski I'd be worried about skiing it on the variable conditions in the resort and in the backcountry in the Northeast. Thoughts?
Hey Scott! My immediate reaction is the Corvus Freebird is probably the best ski for you here. Just based on how you describe your skiing and your size. The Corvus Freebird is going to be more stable and just more supportive for you. Not the lightest ski in the world, but in my opinion certainly light enough, and as you mention would double as a powder ski for the northeast. I have a few friends local to Stowe, VT that use that ski for the same exact application as you're going to and love it. I would be a little concerned you'd find the Navis Freebird to be too unstable at your size and on certain conditions. Would it work? Of course, but I'm not convinced it's the best ski for you.
hey! i‘m 184cm, world you recommend the 179 or 184? thanks
Depends a little on your ability and skiing style. My instinct is to recommend the 184, which should be the way to go if you're a relatively advanced/athletic skier.
Hi, i'm 172 and 140 lbs. I'm looking for a new backcountry touring ski and i think this one is great. But i'm wondering which lenght i should choose, 167 or 173. I would use the ski for touring only and my skills are advanced. Thanks for the feedback!
I would go with the 173. It's lightweight and easy to handle. I think having the extra length would be more beneficial than any added maneuverability of the 167.
Im 6'1 and getting my first touring set up. I would say im an intermediate to advanced skier. I weigh 180 pounds. What length would you recommend?
Hi Adam!
I'd go with the 179 based on your stats and application. Have fun!
SE
Hi, im actually in a struggel.
Until now i did everything with the Dynafit Tour 88. The focus were on mountaineering higher mountains. But now i would like to focus more the downhill. The Problem - that ski should work for a longer uphill too. I know, the camox would be the better solution but i i dont like the style (i know its dumb, but i cant wear a red ski). So the Solution is the black crows orb or the navis. (Or nothing from Black Crows :(... but its a dream of mine to have one of this one...
Really hard decision for me..
Maybe u can help me 😬
I think if you're specifically looking for more downhill performance, the Navis would be better, at least I think that's what I would do if I were you. There will be a more noticeable difference in the downhill performance vs your current skis, and more fun in soft snow and stuff like that.
I'm looking for a quiver of one ski, the Atris, Navis Freebird or Corvus Freebird I had in mind. How do they compare to resort, which might be most fun & versatile there?
Hi Daniel! I'd say the Corvus Freebird is the most well-rounded out of those skis. The Navis Freebird leans a little more towards the touring side of things. Corvus is a little heavier, and a little stronger for skiing within the resort. The Atris, on the other hand, feels more like a powder-specific ski. I'd only choose it as a daily driver if you're frequently skiing soft snow conditions.
Is this a good ski for an expert skier who skis blue groomers, black moguls, and double black hike to terrain? I am looking for an expert level all mountain ski . Thanks!
It could certainly work for that application, yes! It's definitely an expert-level ski, and would be particularly good for that hike-to terrain due to its weight and soft snow performance.
How stable are these at fast speeds and on harder snowpacks? In Britain so most of the snow will be fairly hard. Looking at these for a touring set up with either Shifts or Mwerks but coming from a racing background I'm unsure if these will hold up when charging. Cheers
Pretty darn good for a ski this light! It'll get deflected a little easier than a heavier ski, but considering how light it is, the stability is quite good. I think anyone looking for a relatively stable touring setup would be happy with them.
Hi,
I live on the east coast and do majority of my skiing in NE but tend to only ski decent days after and around storms. I also take a trip out west every winter. I am looking to get into the black crow lineup but am confused which ski I should choose. I am a hard charging skier and My skiing is 75% resort, 25% tours. I have a cast touring binding I would be using. I want something that would be a great ski in deep snow in tight glades at jay, be capable of being semi enjoyable on groomers and fun floating in deep west coast big mountain powder. I recently broke my soul 7s and want something more sturdy. Is the Atris too wide for a "versatilish" NE ski and too heavy for the occasional tour?
I am 6'4 and 230lbs
Hi James! The Atris could work. Heavier than this Navis Freebird, but still light enough for touring. I have a local friend using the Atris with a Shift binding here in the Stowe area and has been loving it. I recently skied the Atris personally and while it's not tremendously quick edge to edge, it is still fun on groomers. Definitely more sturdy than the Soul 7. If that's an important characteristic, I think it's arguably better for you than the Navis just for that sturdy, strong factor.
Hey! I'm 173cm and 100 lbs, intermediate ability, mostly ski in resort touring and backcountry. I'm wondering orb freebird or Navis freebird, which one is better for me? And if the 167 would be the best for me? Thanks for advice!
Hi Lu! I would probably go for the Navis Freebird. If you're in the backcountry, you're going to encounter variable conditions, that's just how it goes. Having a little bit extra width underfoot really helps when things get deep or just when it's variable and you have go to from wind-buffed/firm to soft and back again. And yes, I would go for the 167 cm length. Hope that helps!
Hello, I'm looking for a touring ski which I could also use as a freeride resort ski (50/50). The backcountry I ride when touring is mainly tight trees (Quebec - East Coast). I''m considering the Navis Freebird, the Camox Freebird as well as the Atomic Bentchetler 100. Could you please give me your feedback on these options (any choice would be mounted with an atomic shift binding). I'm 6'1, 190 pounds and an advanced skier.
Thanks for the feedback !
I think the Navis Freebird would be a really good choice. To me it feels more versatile than the Camox Freebird, which I think you'll appreciate having. The Bent Chetler works, but it's heavier than both the Black Crows, and if you're going to be doing a significant amount of touring, I think you can justify the lighter ski.
@@SkiEssentials Great, thanks for the feedback !
Hi, cannot decide between the Ferox freebird, the camox and the navis.... I’ve lately found good powder days in Italy these days, and had fun with 107 skis, but with a very heavy setup to carry after 8000 vertical meters in few days. I don’t mind taking a bit more to reach the summit, I just want to enjoy the descent. In the last days has been very windy and found less powder and more crust, tatto is what we can find here especially towards the end of the season. Which one of the 3 skis would you suggest as the perfect weapon?
I think the Navis might be the ticket. In my opinion, it's the most well-rounded out of those skis. The Ferox is cool, but at 110 mm underfoot, it has its limitations on firm snow. The opposite is true in regards to the Camox. Navis feels like the perfect sweet spot. Light enough for the ascent, good in powder, but also can handle wind-buffed snow, crusty conditions, etc.
@@SkiEssentials cool thank you 🙏
Hi there ;) would like to know the difference between the navis freebird and the kastle tx103, i really don't know wich one to choose, they looks really similar, do we have this metal plate under the foot in the TX103? thks for your help ;)
Hi there!
I'm thinking of switching out my 18' Camox Freebird 183 for the Navis Freebird in 179 and I'd like to hear your thoughts.
I am 179, 91kg. Snow conditions where I live are usually variable.
I'm looking for a ski that has the stability in speed I find in the Camox, but thats more playfull, forgiving and easy to turn at lower speed/tight sections/choppy, variable snow. I feel the tail of the Camox can be a bit of a job to turn in tight, slow situations. Can the Navis offer the stability I find in the Camox when charging, but also give me a easier time turning in crusty/choppy snow at slower speeds?
The Camox are my go to skis forthe touring/backcountry skiing I do. For the deep days I have a second pair (Pescado = a whole lotta fun). I like a medium weight touring setup with focus on the downhill and have 2-3 days in the lifts per season. Are there any other skis I should check out?
Sorry for the long post!
Cheers,
Paul
Hey Paul!
Yeah, I do think you'd prefer the Navis Freebird over the Camox Freebird from everything you've said. It's interesting, as in the non-Freebird versions, the Camox feels really loose because it uses a lot of tail rocker, but it's quite a bit different on the Camox Freebird. Should retain the stability you like, or even increase it, and I think you'll find the tail release is a lot easier, or at least noticeably easier, on the Navis.
@@SkiEssentials Sounds good. Thank you for the insight. :)
I am thinking of going with the Navis Freebird or the Atomic Bent Chelter 100 with some shift bindings as my new touring/resort ski for this year. How would you compare these two? I know they are similar in weight but the shape and construction looks fairly different. Would you have any recommendations?
Are you doing a review of the wayback 106? I'm trying to decide between the navis freebird and that (with a salomon mtn pure), and trying to mentally balance the extra weight on the navis for down performance vs. the extra width and lesser weight on the wayback 106. I'm looking for a spring ski / multiple day tour / not sure what conditions will be ski (I have a heavier freetouring setup already, reckoner 112 + salmont shift, so I'm telling myself a corvus freebird doesn't make sense, but I'm not sure). I'm a relatively big fit dude (6'4" 200lbs) so I may be overthinking the weight difference and should just get the corvus fb.
Hey!
Thanks for the great insights about the skis. I am about to complete my first touring set and I am hesitating between orb, navis and Corvus. I used to be more of a snowboarder and I switched to skiing 2 seasons ago to be able to do more touring and off piste riding however I still enjoy a ride on the slopes :). What would you recommend for a 173 cm / 150 lbs Lady who “wants to have it all” with a focus on touring and off piste ?
Ps. I am based close to the Alps if that matters for the choice :).
Cheers,
Justyna
I think among those 3 skis, in the Freebird line, the Navis or the Corvus is the way to go for that application. The Orb is really light and won't give you as much stability or soft snow versatility as those other two skis. The Corvus is the best in deep snow, and the strongest too. Navis kind of splits the difference, and is arguably a more precise ski just due to the fact it has less rocker and less splay. Quite a few skiers here in Northern Vermont ski the Corvus Freebird for that same application and love it, some touring, some resort, but the Navis could definitely work too if you want to stick with a slightly lighter ski. Our mountains are much smaller, but we actually have similar snow conditions. Looking at lengths, the Navis might make more sense for you, as that 173.4 cm length feels like it would work really well for your size.
@@SkiEssentials Many thanks 😊 yes after having a little bit of reading I am also heading towards the Navis. I ll try to test it in the next opportunity and decide if it’s a good Match. I appreciate your help ✌🏻
Curious about length- 5’10” 140lbs ski an all mountain park ski at 171 and love it but can definitely ski something longer, just wonder if 173 is gonna be on the shorter end of the spectrum. Thoughts?
The lighter weight put the 173 in the "shorter" feeling side, so I'd think that would work well for your stats and application. Have fun!
SE
I've been looking into the Corvus, Navis, and Elan Ripstick Tour 88. I'm 6'2" and 250 pounds, I ski a lot of resorts, but want the flexibility to do some backcountry skiing as well. What would you recommend?
Not the Ripstick 88--that's more of a dedicated tour ski. Navis is the one that has more of the 50/50 mentality that I think you're looking for, I'd go that route. Regular Corvus is quite a handful.
Hi guys, thanks for the super reviews! I was thinking about buying the Blizzard Zero G 105. How would you compare this Navis with Blizzard? And Atomic Backland 100?
The intended use would be almost completely free touring and I would love to get the most out of powder. However, since I am from Italy (Dolomites), we pretty often have different kind of snows.
I am 185cm for 75-80kg, advanced skier, which size would you suggest?
And finally, I was thinking about Marker kingpin bindings, would you recommend or better something else? I personally prefer sacrificing a little bit weight for better performances downhill.
Thanks!
Hi @Skiessentials.com, I was going to write the exact same question.
My apologies Pietro, to hijack a bit your question ;-), but I have exact the same sizes and ski also in the European mountains.
I am looking for a 2 ski quiver setup. My other pair are rustlers 11 with kingpins. The intended use of the lighter freetour ski will be multiple days of touring (but does not need to be incredible light), skiing some steeps and be capable to handle not the best snow.
I want to use quiver killers to share my kingpins and save some money.
The Zero Gs have always felt particularly smooth to me, one of the smoothest in that weight range. Navis feels a little more responsive, as does the Backland 100. To be honest, I enjoy skiing all 3 of them, and personally own a Zero G 95. For length... I actually might consider going with the 188. I went with the longest length in the 95 (185) and I'm a little bit smaller than you. To me the Kingpin feels like a great choice. I'm in the same boat, usually willing to sacrifice some weight for better downhill and I've had great success with the Kingpin.
Guy, for you, since you already have the Rustler 11, I wonder if it makes more sense to go with a narrower ski, like maybe the Zero G 95? The 105 feels like it's getting a little too closer to your Rustler 11 in width.
Hi @@SkiEssentials , once again, thanks a lot for your comment. For sure, this is a valid remark about the width. But I don't think I want to go below 100. I am planning some tourtrips (up to 5 days) in the future and I want this ski for this (lighter then the rustler 11). I want to fully enjoy the descents in every condition, especially some pow :-) if present.
And my other criteria, steeps, which ski of these 3 will be a good choice for this purpose? Or non of them ..
I really want to buy this ski but I'm hesitating between the 173.4 and the 179.1 version. I am 175 tall and will use this ski only for touring all around the mountains. I usually have more of an agressive skiing style which would be a pro for the 179.1 version. Nevertheless I feel like 4cm to 5cm plus my height is much for a touring ski. Any suggestions? Great videos btw.!
I feel like 173.4 kind of makes more sense for a touring ski, although realistically I'm sure you could ski both lengths and would have fun on both. Just kinda feels like overkill going with the 179.1. Hope that helps!
@@SkiEssentials yes, thank you very much for the feedback appreciate that👍🏻
What binding is on that ski?
If I recall correctly, Black Crows had a Dynafit Rotation 12 on there. That ski belonged to Black Crows and since shooting, we've sent it back to them. I could find out for sure if you'd like?
@@SkiEssentials sure that would be great. You guys are the best! Question...any reviews coming up for ON3P?
Jeffrey Manczuk It is the G3 ION 12. A fantastic freeride touring binding not the Dynafit 🙂
@@robinedbrooke3167 Thanks Robin!