2025 Blizzard Anomaly Ski Collection Introduction and First Impressions with SkiEssentials.com
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- Опубликовано: 9 июл 2024
- Brahma, Bonafide, and Cochise all get axed going into 2025 to make room for the new Anomaly collection! While there are changes to their construction, shape, and feel, the theme of being strong, powerful all-mountain skis remains.
Written Article: www.skiessentials.com/Chairli...
0:00 - Intro
1:50 - In the Studio
4:00 - Construction
8:40 - Flex Patterns and Weight
11:30 - Shape
14:15 - Length Breakdown
15:05 - Anomaly 84 On Snow
19:30 - Anomaly 88 On Snow
23:30 - Anomaly 94 On Snow
27:40 - Anomaly 102 On Snow
30:00 - First Impressions
31:45 - Availability
OK guys, I have been watching your programs for quite some time and I have to say that you do incredibly good job describing and presenting skis. i don't think there is anybody out there who can be even close to what you do. The details. construction, technology, demonstration and your personal take after demoing those skis is so dead on that buying skis after watching your video makes it so much easier. Thank you for awesome job !!!!
Thanks so much for that wonderful compliment! We'll try to keep the quality up and continue to improve!
Looking forward to your take on the new enforcer 89/99! Exciting stuff happening this year
Stay strafe out there
Thank you
It feels like they are going back to the Magnum line ski.... GREAT!!!!!!!! I Frickin' LOVED the Magnum line back in the day. I ran my pair into the ground. Have been desperate to find a ski like those. (Closest I ever came was the Liberty Origin)
I'm a new skier, around 30 days this year. I got the chance to demo the 88's and it was my first time on a ski like this. I really enjoyed it!
Awesome! Stable skis are great!
I will keep my Bonafide. But I am very interested in the new collections!
Can't wait to see a lengthier comparison between these and the 2024 Rustler line
Yes please. Just bought the Rustler 2024 myself.
Anomaly is a considerably stronger and more directional ski than Rustler. The slight move towards Rustler from old Bonafide/Brahma opens up the range to more skiers mainly due to the added rocker, but the build is very much still entrenched in the "old" ways. The speed difference and stability in a carved turn is the starkest difference between the two lines.
@@SkiEssentials The cochise is my favorite ski, how do you think I will like the new line? thanks for all your fire videos :D
Would be nice to try out. These are available for demo this weekend at my ski hill. I’ve owned the Cochise in a 177 and a Bonafide in 184. Fantastic burly, solid, grippy and damp skis. However hard as heck to really get into the front of the skis so always more or less skiing on top of the boots with a more centre square style. Looking forward to the 102! Thanks guys. 👍
Can’t wait to demo these in March, wasn’t happy with the rustler changes but I’ve never been a fan of the Brahma so looking forward to it.
I've been on the 88 for a few days now and LOVE it!
Oh boy, more choices just when I thought I was closing in on a new ski. I’m on my second pair of Bonafides, a 180 cm, 98mm . Never had so much fun, but at age 67, maybe the new line is going to work for me as I’m not ripping at the speed I used to. Love them for groomers, steeps and some soft snow. If it gets deep, they can be a challenge, at least for me. Wondering if it’s time to go a bit narrower, but I do love that stability under foot. Choices, choices 😊
The Anomaly 94 is a pretty sweet ski!
@@SkiEssentials moving from. 98 to 94 with a little more “forgiveness “ might make sense for me at this stage of my life” career.” Thx
I ski a Brahma 82 with Tyrolia protector binding most days here in Western NY. Damp and stable here on the iced groomers especially at night. If I want trees or moguls I use Liberty Origin. I love the Brahma and feel a bit skeptical of the new Anomaly. I won't need skis for several years and would need to demo the Anomaly.
I just scored a 2013 Katana in the wrapper, the dragon is gonna breathe this winter at the Loaf!
Woah! Probably some of the best graphic years for Volkl.
Very nice review thanks guys ! Do you have the details sidecut for each one of them in 176 and 182 ? cheers
We don't have the 176 specs at this time, but if you check out the written portion from this review, we do have the 182's listed (and 188's for the 102).
www.skiessentials.com/Chairlift-Chat/2025-blizzard-anomaly-ski-preview
Steadfast 85 or Anomaly 84. THX. Great Review. Always the First💪
I'm still viewing the Steadfast as a wider front side ski while the Anomaly 84 fits more into the narrow all-mountain ski category. As such, the Steadfast's shape and camber profile lend to more direct initiation and completion of turns while the Blizzard has driftier capabilities due to the rocker. Skiers focusing more on their pure carving, especially at moderate speeds, will likely have more success on the Steadfast but those that are looking for higher speeds and more versatile skiing will probably gravitate to the Anomaly.
I ski the brahma 88 and I ride the lift with other blizzard skiers (cochise, rustler, etc) and we’re always talking about tradeoffs and pros/cons lol between what we’re on. I really enjoy the brahma 88 but wow it is very demanding and there are situations when sharing the mountain with others or needing to shed speed on marbles/refreeze where the ski need a lot of input to release those tails and get the ski back on edge. I sometimes wish it was a little dialed back at times, but I’m keeping the brahma 88 for as long as I can because sometimes I wake up and just need to be riding a missile. I’d love to try one of these anomolys, maybe the 88 or 102.
I've been skiing on the Anomaly 88 for a few days now and continue to be impressed. It's not a Brahma 88--I can tell you that much, but I personally have a much better time on this ski and it works really well in softer snow, bumps, and trees. The groomer performance is more than adequate, and way better than most 88's out there, but I think this move was on purpose by Blizzard--there's more Anomaly skiers in the world than Brahma skiers, and it looks like that's what they're going for. Again, totally impressed with this ski, but more so its overall composure rather than its raw high end performance.
Should I look at Anomaly 88 or 94? Ski VT mostly.
Guys, watched the new Enforcer vid and the on snow Anomaly 84 vid. Would you compare the Anomaly 94 to the New 24/25 enforcer 94? Is the Anomaly 94 comparable to the FX 96 Ti as well? Double black bowls just opened here in CO but a little slick, need something that will hold! Keep up the good work, loving the vids this season!
The overall performance is about the same between the 94's, with the Nordica feeling a bit turnier to go across the fall line vs. the Anomaly that has more of a straight-line mentality. I like the tip shape of the Anomaly when it comes to softer snow versatility, but the Nordica is more consistent from tip to tail. The Kastle has a more flexible shovel still, but feels very planted and connected to the snow otherwise. I personally feel a stronger connection to the Enforcer 94 vs. the Anomaly, but it's pretty darn close and they're both ripping skis.
Great overview, thank you. How would you say Anomaly 88 compares to Enforcer 88, a ski I am very familiar with? Will be shopping for a pair of skis next fall for my advanced/expert teen, wondering if Anomaly should be on the list.
If you are familiar and enjoy the Enforcer 88, Anomaly 88 should certainly be on the list. It's slightly lighter and more mobile than the Enforcer--better in bumps and trees for sure without a steep drop off in high-end carving performance. Enforcer is a bit stiffer and more demanding.
@@SkiEssentialswith the E88 is being replaced by the new E89 this fall, how would that change your comment (A88 vs E89)?
@@christophersantos3324 The main takeaway that I've felt is that the Enforcer 89 is a crisper and better turner/carver than the Anomaly, although the Anomaly 88 is a more versatile ski now, especially in softer snow. I think Anomaly has moved past Enforcer in this realm.
Any thoughts on why you can see and feel the “flux form” metal in the rustler vs the flat top sheet in the anomaly?
It sticks up slightly in the Anomaly but more in the mid-body rather than the tips/tails or underfoot zone. The fact that the Anomaly still has the central layer of metal also evens things out a bit from a stacking/laminating perspective.
Just when I think I knew what ski I wanted next, you guys post a new video! 😂
So I’m a 45 year old new skier still (3 years), 5’9” 200lbs with strong legs and I fell in love with my Brahma 88’s in a 171 on the first run. I had the new Rustler 9’s and they were way too soft for me. I really like the locked in tail on the Brahma’s. Similar experience when I stepped onto my Enforcer 100’s in a 172. They plow through chopped up PNW heavy snow like butter. My previous goal was to size up the Enforcer this season, but now I’m having second thoughts. Do I get the Anomoly 102 in the 176? Or do I get a Bonafide before they disappear, and then down the line something wider and softer like a Rustler 11 for powder days?
I’m definitely not a free ride/playful skier, I enjoy carving and charging through whatever is in front of me. Thoughts? You guys haven’t let me down yet!
Ha! Gotta keep you on your toes!
I think you should get a Bonafide. Probably the 177. Sounds like you enjoy the firm tail and strong capabilities of these dual-metal laminate skis. The new Anomaly skis do move the needle closer to Rustler, so if you know you love the Brahma/Enforcer style of ski, I'd think the Bonafide is the way to go!
@@SkiEssentialsthanks! My follow up was going to size of Bonafide, I appreciate the advice!
Thanks for the video!
I ski the alps mostly and own a Rustler 9 and a Kore 105.
I'm 174cm 77kg and concider myself a strong/advanced skiier. As an all mountain ski, would you upgrade to the 2024 rustler or should I concider one of the Anomalies?
I'd take a look at the Anomaly 88 for all-mountain use. This will spread your skis out nicely!
Skied 2 days with the A94 and A88. Only made a few runs with the 94 as it just wasn't a get me ski. I found it similar to the older E100, sturdy but not very exciting. It is definitely not a replacement for the Bonafide. I really enjoyed the 88 although again, definitely not a Brahma but that can be a good thing. It is way easier and maneuverable, very quick to change from carving to sliding and feels much lighter. Very easy in moguls, it carves very well but definitely not the edge hold of a Brahma, in fact my Enforcer 99 held much better on hardpack. This may be due to length, I found them to ski short. I am on a 183 Brahma and had a 182 A88 and it felt shorter. I did a totally un-scientific measurement and the 182 A88 has 9 cm less contact area on a flat surface compared to the Brahma due to the rocker. I would like to try a 188 to see if it holds better. I think the 88 will be a great ski for a lot more people, its not very demanding and more fun than the Brahma, definitely not a expert only ski. It can be skied at a much lower speed and still work although Im not convinced on its upper end, the visibility here in the Canadian Rockies I had did not encourage all out speed. I was expecting a lot more of the 94 but was underwhelmed, but everyone has different likes and opinions. In the end I still much prefer the Enforcer 99, extremely versatile, can be skied hard and it holds up and can be skied relaxed and still fun. And even though it doesn't matter, the graphics are blah, much prefer the Brahma and Bonafide graphics.
Skied the 88 today in better light and good conditions. Definately not the same upper speed limit of the Brahma, the short feeling is noticeable. Will be keeping my Brahma's.
Thanks for the great line overview and details! Since the Blizzard is already coming out with the news for 2025, can you already share also some Tecnica updates? Specifically, I'm really interested in the Tecnica Mach1 130 MV - is there going to be any significant upgrade of this boot for 2025? Any info would be really appreciated, even yes / no :) Thanks!
There will not be a big change to that boot from Tecnica--their big news is the implementation of Boa into their Mach HV boots in the 110 and 120 flex.
Thanks for the review. It sounds like the Anomaly and new Enforcer are trying to be more like the Volkl M6 Mantra? Curious how they compare. I had Gen 1 and 3 Bonafide and then went to the M6 Mantra as loved that it charges but still easy to ski at low speeds with some pop that allowed me to go to the longer 184 length.
I suppose you could infer that due to the reshaping of the metal, but I still think they feel and ski WAY different than Mantra. The Mantra is still considerably more precise and reactive than the 94's and less versatile. The Enforcer 94 is more of an accomplished round carver than ever before and the Anomaly 94 is more versatile than the Bonafide ever was.
love your reviews. I am guessing that these are way too much ski for me but would love your recommendations. I am 5'9", 185. Strong intermediate/advanced looking for mostly groomers but want ability to ski the crud late in the day and occasional off piste. Want something that is easy to crave, slower and shorter turns. East coast only. My latest guesstimate would be the Ripstick 88 at 172 cm length. Any recommendations greatly appreciated.
We're pretty impressed with the Ripstick and its ability to make a lot of different turns with ease and poise. There are some other carbon-powered skis in this range that make sense--the Armada Declivity 88 or Head Kore 87 are both light yet precise skis that can handle crud, carves, and multiple speeds with a more approachable feel. I'd say your length in the low 170's is right on!
Thanks very much….i will check those out as well!
Is that a textured waffle pattern on the top sheet? Looks like stickers would have a heck of a time sticking to it.
I also noticed lately the shiny parts of the 2024 Rustler top sheet seem kinda fragile and easily scraped off...
It is lightly textured. I'd imagine stickers will struggle. We haven't seen too much of Rustler topsheet damage, although that wouldn't be unheard of as a first-year ski.
@@SkiEssentials I've had some luck using a heat gun set on low to get stickers to adhere better. I definitely noticed it was easier to get stickers to stick to the OG Cochise with the fully shiny non textured top sheet then it has been to get them to stick to the first gen Rustler.
I love my '24 Rustler 9. Is the Anomaly 84 the low-tide front side ski which retains some of that Rustler performance in the bumps that I'm searching for or would the Brahma 82 still be a better complement? I've got a few days on my Wingman 86 CTI, which are really intuitive in turns, but seem to lack some of the dampness of the Rustlers when things get roughed up.
Declivity 82ti 😉
Today I skied the Anomaly 88 in the bumps to put it through some more paces and I was very happy with the performance. I haven't done the same with the 84, but I can only imagine it's even better than the 88, at least from a quickness perspective. The 84 is likely a better complement to the Rustler 9 than the 88--I'd keep it on your radar for sure. And yes, the Declivity 82 Ti mentioned above also fits this application but with a slightly lighter weight and a snappier feel.
@@SkiEssentials, the next question would be length (I'm 5'11", 180lbs) and ski the Rustler 9 in 180 (not sure why they can't be consistent with a reference ski across their product lines). The 176 sounds a little on the short side, especially since they added more tail rocker/splay, so thinking 182 is the ticket.
Thanks guys for your awesome review. I can't wait to get my hands on one pair now!
As far as I understand the Anomaly 88 would now be more comparable to the old Brahma 88 SP: less stiff, more accessible...? How would it compare to the Kendo 88 or to a K2 Mindbender 89ti?
It's not much less stiff due to the build--the shape makes it more flexible in the tips and tails but it's more stout overall than the SP for sure. The Kendo has more precision and is more of a reactive ski--I think the Anomaly 88 is now considerably more versatile than either the Kendo or the Mindbender. I've spent a good amount of time on the new 88 and absolutely adore it.
@@SkiEssentials thank you very much ! definitely looking forward to trying these skis ! and keep up the good work ! greetings from France !
Guys good vid as always, Stronger and smoother than a Stormrider 88/95? Stronger than Mantra M6? I am def in the market for smooth and strong in the crud/chop maybe not looking for the "strongest" ski on the market though. Thoughts? Still thinking of saving for the Stormrider95 but these companies are all making great skis so everything is on the table. Thx
I'd put it on a similar level in terms of power as the Stormriders but with more tail rocker. The Stockli is a bit lighter as well, so it's kind of a tradeoff here. The Mantra is more powerful and precise with less rocker and more grip. If you're not looking for the strongest, but still strong, I'd say the Stockli or the Anomaly make good sense. If you want to save a few dollars, the Anomaly is not really a drop in performance, it's just a bit louder. You're paying for silence and quietude with the Stormrider.
I will say Brahma, Bonafide and Cochise were all great ski names lol. They were kind of a standard and reference point for comparisons. Don't really like the sound of Anomaly. I get it that it makes it simpler but not a fan of the change.
Spot on!!
I wonder if…the Brahma/Bonafide/Cochise held the title for most demanding and high performance skis yet they were outsold year after year by Kendo/Mantra/Enforcer so Blizzard decided to abdicate the Throne of Burliness for business reasons while continuing to make advanced level skis that have 2 sheets of metal. And/or the diehards of those models kept grumbling about how the Brahma/Bonafide/Cochise were getting dumbed down every year while keeping the same names so they just kept that process going but changed the names to avoid the flak? I have no idea but I wouldn’t be surprised!
Interesting take! I'm sure some of that was part of the discussion. The basic question I think, is: what's the minimum amount of high-octane performance we can lose without totally alienating our expert base? Bonus points if we can increase versatility!
How would the 94 compare to the ‘22 Fischer Ranger 99 Ti? I ski those in the 188 on low(er) tide days in Utah and don’t want to end up buying too similar a ski. The Anomaly sounds perfect but between the 88 and 94. Would be looking to ski when I am back home on the east coast. Probably looking to size down in length to a 182 regardless. Want something slightly more nimble but still able to charge in all conditions. (Ex-racer)
The 88 will offer a greater difference than the 94, which I think may have some crossover with the 99Ti. I love the versatility and chargy nature of the Anomaly, but I've been most impressed with the 88 so far. I think that's a good choice for you over the 94.
Hi from France ! Thx again for those great vids! I ski a enforcer 88 186 cm i really like it. I have the possibilty to get a discount on new blizzard (anomaly 88) you said you prefer the anomaly 88 182 than the 188? What's your thoughts anomaly 88 188 vs enforczr 88 186? Would you recomend the 182 anomaly more (i'm 1.86 m , 72 kg) thux!
I have not skied the 188 in the 88. I do think there's a lot to like in the 182, especially if you are looking for the more versatile of the two skis. The Enforcer is such a crisp and powerful carver, while the new Anomaly has more all-mountain well-roundedness. Love this ski.
Thks for the helps and vidéos, i finally order the anomaly88 in 188 cm, waiting for them very soon!
@@bkkaset enjoy!!
Love rustler... my rustler 11 is the perfect Whistler ski!! Powder, snow death cookies, wind swept snow....love it. What is the ski to the FAR RIGHT?
I think that's the current Cochise 106
Cochise 106 is correct!
www.skiessentials.com/products/2024-blizzard-cochise-106-skis?ski%2520size=192
Is the mount point any different from the outgoing Brahma/Bonafide line? (i.e., further forward or back)
We have since given our demos back to Blizzard so I can't check the skis. They made no mention of the movement of the mount point, so I'd assume it's relatively similar. I will see them again this Tuesday. If you don't hear back from me by Thursday, please reply to this thread and I'll try to get back to you with that info.
@@SkiEssentials Any update?
I am curious to hear your comparison of the 88 to the Enforcer 89, and the 94 to the Enforcer 94 (both 2025 versions). Good videos on the Enforcers and Anomalies.
The Anomaly 88 is now considerably more versatile than the Brahma used to be, and this puts it on the other side of Enforcer 89 now, as well. If they were going for more all-mountain feel, they got it with Anomaly. This ski is amazing. It makes incredibly versatile turn shapes and styles and works way better in softer snow than I thought it would. There's a bit of a drop in pure carving performance, but I don't think that'll offend many people--still two sheets of metal and a very stable feel. The 94's are more similar to their predecessors and each other. The main difference I found is that the Anomaly wanted to go straighter and faster while the Enforcer 94 is happier in a round and carved turn. I was not really expecting this as the 88/89's are a bit different, but it's pretty noticeable. For most all-mountain skiing, I like the Enforcer's style a whole lot. Anomaly feels a bit higher octane than what I do most of the time.
So, my only thought at this point, do I buy a 177 or 183 Bonafide, hopefully I can find them....
We have both lengths! If you're reasonably skilled and aggressive, it's fun to go longer on this ski I've found.
www.skiessentials.com/products/2024-blizzard-bonafide-97-skis?ski%2520size=177
So how would the wider anomalies compare with say an enforcer 100?
The weight is one of the bigger differences, with the Enforcer still tipping the scales on the heavier side of the spectrum. We've found Anomaly to be quicker and more agile without dropping a whole lot off the top end. With weight comes stability, but also a lack of pop and pep, so you are seeing a difference in the way the skis engage and finish turns. Within the carve, they're both incredibly smooth and stable--the 102 specifically feels like a freight train and is amazingly solid.
Hello guys! I’m 5’6 (166cm) and currently ski on the Black Crows Atris at 172cm length. I’ve read the Anamoly 84 ski short, would the 176 ski length be ok or should I go shorter?
I'd guess the 176 would feel long in the Anomaly 84 based on your height. I'd go 170.
Graphics are interesting. Definitely softer flex pattern on the new skis, hence easier turning and playful. Moving away from the brute stiffness of prior models. I think they (Blizzard ) want to attract new users to their brand. Smart move.
There will certainly be some skiers who will miss that brute stiffness, but the increase of skiers that will be attracted to these new models will be a net gain for sure.
What about a comparison between the new Anomaly 88 and the Kendo? Which one is the more precise for a more groomed oriented use? In such a case could the new Anomaly 84 be the best choice? Thanks
We're stoked to stack up the Anomaly 88 against its counterparts, and the Kendo is going to be a big one for next year. Even with Brahma 88, the Kendo always felt a little more precise but a little less damp. I think what you'll find is that Anomaly is nearly as damp as the Brahma, but considerably more versatile. It's still not going to be as precise and exact as the Kendo, but it's quite a bit more interesting and amenable in more conditions and terrain. Regarding the 84, I still think Kendo will have that "stronger" vibe to it based on the edge grip and power--Anomaly 84 will be the quicker and more agile ski for sure.
I’m 6’5, 200 lbs and interested in the 84 or 88. What length do you think would be right for me? I have always gone towards the longest length available in the past due to my height, but have a set of Enforcer 100s in 191 and find them to be a handful off piste. Also worried 182 will be too short at 6’5. Bob’s comments about enjoying shorter lengths has got me thinking.
It's funny, what I've come to realize is that there's A) The proper size based on your stats and application, and B) The length you simply prefer. At 6/2 225, I have had a blast on the 182's in both the 84 and the 88. The 188 that I skied in the 102 felt a bit long, even though that's "my size." Also, each ski has its own individual range, so the 182 in the Anomaly 88 is not the same as a 182 in next year's Elan Ripstick 88. I simply prefer the 182 in these skis and I fear that if I were to ski the 188, I'd find them less responsive and engaging, albeit more stable at higher speeds. I just don't like skiing that fast all the time anymore!
As another 6'2" 225 guy, I skied the 102 in the 188 which felt pretty good and the 94 in the 182 which felt okay but a bit short. Loved how they skied though, If I end up buying it'll likely be the 88 in the 188 length with the bindings mounted slightly forward
Jeff what kind of mitts do you wear?
Swany! I love them.
Thanks! Have you or Jeff every skied Moment Wildcat 101 or Deathwish 104?
Now I need to decide do I get a new Bonafide thats on sale to replace my older ones or wait to buy that 94… 🤔
Well, I think you should buy the Bonafide now because you won't be able to ever again. Anomaly will still be around in a few years, so you have time on that one.
How would you compare this new Anomaly 88 to the Kendo 88? Thanks!
Oooh, don't tempt me with a good time! Firstly, I'll say that despite the amazing precision of the Kendo, I'm taking an Anomaly 88 almost any day, including the very firm ones. I prefer the more woody sound and feel of the Blizzard vs. the metallic ping of the Volkl. The new shape of the Anomaly makes it a lot more versatile than the Brahma was or the Kendo is, and it doesn't come at a huge cost to carving power and performance. I can't reach the top end of these skis anyway, so I'm going with the well-rounded yet totally stout Anomaly.
@@SkiEssentials Awesome, thanks!
whats the reason Bob is not skiing long version?
I've been enjoying the shorter lengths in sturdy skis like these lately, mainly to feel the shorter turn radius. I skied the 188 in the Anomaly 102 and thought it was very smooth and stable, but not really a Vermont length for me. Today I spent the morning on the Anomaly 88 in the 182 and loved it. I'll still need to try the 188 in that ski to get a full and fair view, but it's tough to argue against such a positive experience.
How would you compare the anomaly 84 to the Steadfast 85?
Anomaly feels like the narrower all-mountain version compared to the Steadfast's wider front side character. There's also a speed factor here--the Anomaly is sturdier at speed while I found the Steadfast to operate much better in the mid-range of both velocity and turn shape. I LOVE how the Steadfast initiates turns. Anomaly isn't quite there, but that also makes it more versatile and a better tree/bump/technical zone ski. Steadfast can be well-rounded, but it's not quite as mobile in softer snow. The rocker of the Anomaly makes it more drifty and smeary than the Nordica. For an 84, it's got a great mix of on and off-trail performance while the Steadfast still leans more to the carving character.
Thanks for the detailed breakdown. I'm trying to replace my castle dx eighty five. Which do you think is closer to it? @SkiEssentials
With the shorter effective edge due to the rocker and the 88 for example being 1cm smaller at 176cm, would we be sizing up now?
Radius not mentioned either, comparitively please?
I don't think so. Not for me personally, anyway. I loved the Brahma 88 in the 183, and I've been on the Anomaly 88 in the 182 and love it--definitely would be skeptical about getting the 188. For radii, we only have the stats on certain lengths at this point. The 102 in the 188 is 21m, 102 in 182 is 19.5m. 84 in 182 is 17m, and 176 is 15.5m. 94 in 182 is 18.5m. 88 in 176 is 16.5m and 18 m in 182.
Your comment about stocking up applies to Nordica as well. No more Enforcer 110 next year so I have bought a new pair of 191 to keep wrapped until my old ones give up. Another loss of a great ski but I guess they dont sell. First the 115 now the 110.
There's always sadness when models get discontinued. Skiers are a romantic bunch for sure. Have you tried the Unleashed 108 or 114 yet? Not quite the same, but I love the 108 for variable conditions and terrain as well as groomers. The 114 is kind of a beast, but I can get the application for those as more of an athlete driven ski.
I havent tried the unleashed but from every review I have read, it doesnt sound like my kind of ski. I ski The E110 which can charge through almost everything, a Enforcer 94 and a Brahma. Im more of a metal ski kind of guy. Luckily I found a great deal on this years 110 and stocked up a spare.@@SkiEssentials
Anomaly 88 vs. Mindbender 89ti? Thoughts?
I think Anomaly is moving a bit more to the versatile side vs. the K2. I also don't think the carving/on-piste performance of the Anomaly is any less than that of the Mindbender--maybe a bit less crisp in the initiation/completion phase, but overall the Anomaly is still more powerful. For skiers who want more of an across-the-fall-line carver, the K2 is a better choice, but the new Anomaly is more versatile and more well-rounded overall.
I’m In the market for a 84 82 all mountain ski how will these compare to declivity 82
The Anomaly feels more powerful and damp than the Declivity, but it's not as poppy or quick. The Declivity has a lot of camber to it--long profile, and that makes it very reactive from tip to tail. The Anomaly has more rocker to it, and that delays the initiation ever so slightly, but it does make a difference. That said, the rocker makes the Anomaly a lot more versatile and all-mountain oriented than the Brahma 82 ever was.
Do either of you think you’ll be adding an Anomaly to your personal collection of skis?
I'd take an 88 any day of the week--I love that ski. I don't see myself seeking it out and adding it, exactly, but if it found its way into my personal collection, I wouldn't send it back.
Now Jeff is planning to add an 88 to his collection. 😊 Watching you guys has caused me to expand my collection too 😬
Why did they have to make the 102 purple...sigh
I know it's petty. If they're getting rid of the Cochise they could have made it orange.
Aesthetically I like the 88 the best! Is the 94 brown?
We love the purple 102! The 88 glows--especially the sidewalls. The 94 is green.
@@SkiEssentials I'm a little conflicted now on what ski to get this season!
I think it's now Anomaly 88 later this season or Rustler 10 sooner
Bummer. I’ll keep my Brahma 88s and Bonafide for frontside corduroy. When I want a more playful ski I’ll use my Rustler 10s. I get why they did it but sad to see them go.
I guess they could always bring them back at some future date
Any manufacturers still making a ski similar to the Cochise?
You'll see a Volkl Mantra 108 for 2025 which is the same ski as the Katana with a different name. Rossignol made (not sure if they're continuing) a Sender Squad which is a Cochise-adjacent ski.
@@SkiEssentials What do you guys make of the Volkl delam issues: noticeably worse than other manufacturers or overblown? My 2019/2020 Mantra 102s have held up well, but I see tons of people online have problems. I'm thinking it might be time to stockpile heavy, stable skis now that manufacturers are phasing them out. I'm not sure if I want to roll the dice on Katanas. Cochise seem very durable. Perhaps a bit more camber than Katanas too, which I'd prefer.
@@incand3nza We've seen some issues, especially with the tail portion of the titanal frame, mainly in the M6's, but also that's just such a strong selling ski that the sample size is way bigger than something like the 102. Cochise doesn't have the frame build--it's more traditional--so I'd suspect those will hold up better over time. Nordica Enforcer 104 is another sturdy ski that has fantastic durability.
Is the Anomaly also named after a rodeo bull? I hope they didn’t get rid of that cool naming scheme with this new line.
No bull. New Anomaly is meant to stand out from the crowd and be individualistic, not ordinary.
Would love to hear your thoughts on anomaly compared to enforcer!
They're certainly occupying similar spaces in their respective catalogs. The Nordica turns very well--that's been a constant highlight of those skis. Comparing 94's to 94's, the Enforcer feels a bit more planted while the Anomaly has slightly more drifty capabilities and feels like a lighter swing weight in shorter to medium-radius turns. The new Anomaly moves a bit more to the off-piste and creative zones than the Bonafide used to while the Enforcer still feels like it can make a race-like carve on a groomer but doesn't feel quite as approachable in an off-trail capacity.
@@SkiEssentials thank you for the response!
Similar product line to Dynastar now - its no longer about widths and instead about the style of turn. Mfree/Rustler for freestyle inspired turns, Mpro/Anomaly for traditional skiers.
It was always kinda like that with the bull series
Many companies do this--having an all-mountain and then a freeride line. Salomon Stance/QST, Rossignol Sender/Blackops, Volkl Mantra/Blaze, Liberty Evolv/Origin, Kastle MX/FX/ZX--the list goes on. Some skiers have a much easier time identifying with a style rather than a width--I think it makes it easier to home in on what will serve you better more of the time.
Time to play taps for some great traditional skis. A sad day for fans of full camber skis.
I'd recommend at least trying the new ones before burying them! But yes, there will be some sad Brahma/Bonafide fans for sure.
@@SkiEssentials I am very glad to have my Bonafide 97s.
Completely shocked with Blizzard decision……they get rid of two most amazing skis ever in the history…:.so disappointed. In 4 decades, I’ve never found better skis than my great Bonafide…..unbelievable 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️. Anyway, great review as usual guys!! Greetings from Chile
Skiers are very romantic and nostalgic! Have you skied the Anomaly skis yet? They may not live up to your expectations of a Bonafide, but maybe you will like them more for different reasons?
@@SkiEssentials not romantic, Bonafide are great , that is a fact. Anyway, you have a point about testing them but there is a fundamental proverb in life: if it aint broke it, don’t fix it!!
@@juliodominguez4750I'll do proverbs all day! You can't stay neutral on a moving train.
Gotta say when you are skiing these new ones vs the Brahma vids, you looked way stronger and controlled on the Brahmas.......
The specs suggest a stiffer version of the Rustlers tbh, esp if they had a Rustler 8 version. Also a drop on effective edge vs the old ones in the similar lengths too.
New Enforcers will shake this space up too.
An Anomoly 94 vs a Declivity 92 will now be an interesting comparison also 😉
It's fair to say that in a groomer format, the Brahma 88 is a more composed ski, especially if you're driving it fast and hard. There's a slight move to the Rustler shape and style for sure--that cannot be denied--but it skis way stronger than the Rustlers. Regarding 94 vs. Declivity 92, there's still more snap and pop to the Armada--that's a nice aspect of that ski with the lighter wood and excellent turn completion and rebound. I don't think it's quite as sturdy as Anomaly 94 on a groomer--need more time in trees, bumps, variable conditions to further detail this comparison.
If you're in that one percent.... Buy a kastle m x😁
You can still buy Brahmas! And yes, that MX 88 is a very sturdy comparison, even more race-like!
Lots of angst here. Maybe give them a couple runs on some demos before you completely discount them? Always blows my mind how many people that haven’t been on “board X” that know how much they suck already… 🙄
Agree, and we've also seen it with other new products and technologies lately. BOA comes to mind as a tech that people write off long before skiing the boots. However you end up feeling about the system and it's place in the ski world, you gotta try it first. Same thing here with Anomaly.
couldn't have come up with a better name??
It fits their critera of wanting to stand out and be individualistic in the skis. Granted, it's not as fun as a bunch of bull names!
I watch A LOT of your vids and do notice that you Stowe boys tend to often jump at the end of your turns to lift your tails. This seems like a really old-school form of release that always makes me doubt your reviews. I hate to say it, because you guys talk a lot of good shop, but of all the skis I want to hear about, the Crud Carvers, I just can't trust your feedback regarding a ski's ability for the tail to be released... because I don't see you release it... I see you jump out of it. Your skis should be on the ground 100% of the time. I want to see you all learn to drive the bases of the skis, and surf them in and out of carves, up and over bumps. I get that you (anyone) can jump and switch 180. But can you butter it 180? Even just surf it 180? Can you surf it in and out of a carve? There is a huge grey zone between surfing and carving... and it feels like the Stowe boys see it black and white. They're either jibbing and jumping, or carving. I wanna see you guys do both in one set of turns. I'm not trying to attack, but trying to give some feedback to your reviewing styles... keep your feet planted and show us a release. Surf your carving skis for us... because everything from Enforcer, to Mantra, to Anomaly all looks the same. If you're jumping off your heals at the end of turns in mild moguls, and then tell me it's a forgiving ski, I'm just not going to believe you.
I hope my point came through without offense because I'm 90% on the fence for an Anomaly 94 or 88 but will likely go with Heritage Lab out of pure instinct knowing who's behind the designs.
Thanks for the feedback! We always talk about how skiing and progression is a fluid process and it's never complete. Hopefully improvement happens every day in one way or another as we strive to continue to learn and grow with each passing ski day. This goes for skiing as well as life. Personally, I simply enjoy the feeling of rebound at the end of the turn, and find it to be a highlight of many of these wider carvers. So far, I am most impressed with the Anomaly 88 when it comes to mixing carved turns on smooth snow and more creative arcs in crud and chop.
Oh man the graphics are pretty fugly
You're not the first to indicate such feelings. I find them largely unoffensive.
Bad decision as the market continues to move to the center (all things to all people). In a few years a manufacturer will create a new line of burly skis in response to this trend and call it revolutionary.
It all comes full circle for sure, but if they're following the market based on what more skiers want, it's tough to call it a bad business decision.
Poor decision by blizzard. Even if there are positive situations where this new ski might be better, doesn’t change the fact that they’ve dumbed down their best ski line.
Damn you’ve ridden them? Would love to hear about your experience between the two and how this is dumbed down!
For me it's good news. I've only had Brahma 82, but I could just barely bend it.
The new Rustler 9 186 and one 88 directional would be my target. I was looking at the Kendo but this looks similar.
For strong , directional, ex racer riders, this is bad news I think.
I think this is going to be a net gain for skiers looking for a strong, dual-metal laminate ski that rips. Some skiers will find a bit of a dip in top end performance, but it's going to be the minority for sure. So far, we've been more than pleased with the stability, power, and versatility of the entire Anomaly line.
Unbelievable!!
I’m a die hard Brahma skier and former collegiate racer and Tahoe skier now residing on the East Coast. I had the chance to ski the Anomaly 88 2 weeks ago on the tail end of day that started with a foot of fresh. The ski felt every bit as stable as the Brahma and performed with the same exceptional power and crud blasting as the Brahma. I felt they’d moved the binding mount slightly forward. It was choppy and skied out conditions and the 88’s felt natural to me… not like an entirely new ski. Of the skis I skied that day the Anomaly and Stormrider 95’s were standouts. The M7 mantra was good but flappy in the chop. I liked the Anomaly’s more than the Stormrider 88’s as well. They were great as mentioned and I look forward to trying them on some groomed runs next season. 182cm is what I skied. I ski the 183 Brahma.
I’m sure they are really great skis, but the graphics…🤢 not a fan.
Not even the Purple 102? I think that one's sharp.