2023 Men's Frontside Ski Comparison with SkiEssentials.com
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- Опубликовано: 8 июл 2024
- Here's our comparison of 2023 frontside skis! Instead of breaking it down into more specific groups, we thought it was a more interesting conversation to cover a bigger span of widths. We hope you enjoy!
Written Comparison: www.skiessentials.com/Chairli...
0:00 - Intro
2:40 - Atomic Redster X9s
6:20 - Stockli Laser WRT ST
10:05 - Blizzard Firebird WRC
13:00 - Head Supershape e-Speed
17:00 - Dynastar Speed 963
20:00 - Volkl Deacon Master 72
23:50 - K2 Disruption MTI
29:35 - Rossignol Hero Elite MT
34:35 - Nordica Dobermann Spitfire 76
38:00 - Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB
42:20 - Atomic Redster Q9
45:10 - Scott Pure Piste 77
48:25 - Head Supershape e-Rally
52:00 - Stockli Montero AX
56:00 - Salomon Stance 80
59:30 - Volkl Deacon 80
1:03:55 - Salomon S/Force Ti.80
1:06:30 - Kastle PX81
1:10:30 - Blizzard Brahma 82
1:15:40 - Black Crows Divus
1:19:00 - Fischer RC One 82 GT
1:22:00 - Rossignol Experience 82 Ti
1:26:35 - Armada Declivity 82 TI
1:29:05 - Elan Wingman 82 CTI
my favorite equipment review channel by far. so much passion and sincerity in the way that you assess these skis. keep up the great work, fellas.
Will do, thanks for watching!
Mad respect for the way you test skis! We all look good on a perfect groomer but get into some chop or chunder and you'll know if you're on the right skis or not. Well done guys!
We all THINK we look good on groomers. 😀
I notice anytime Jeff swings a ski into the air, Bob leans back and gets his head out of the way. An instinct born of experience no doubt!
Never been hit!
Skis for East coast skiers !!! Love my Hero Multi-Turn Ti.
Amazing ski reviews, as usual.
Love seeing some of your former racers in the frontside ski footage. It really shows what these skis can do.
We're always on the lookout for fresh talent--makes the video so much more entertaining!
Great reviews.
As a former racer and now in my senior years part time instructor, I am skiing the whole mountain, powder, moguls, trees, steep slopes, but my fedorite is carving. With my new Blizzard Thunderbird 15WB I have a kickass carver with just a bit all mountain capability.
Thank you for helping making a great decision.
Thanks so much! Have a great winter!
Great overview and review fellas!
So glad to see Brahma and Declivity 82 on this frontside wall!
Great skis! Fun to see the flats up there with the race systems.
Just bought a Salomon Stance 80, because of your review. Thanks for making my decision so much easier.
Good choice!
Great review. 👍🏽👍🏽
I love my Stockli skis for frontside skiing. Most days are not powder days so I prefer a narrower ski under foot. I like a ski that will carve on concrete.
There's nothing like the feeling of rolling edge-to-edge railed turns with centered weighting, or bending a ski deep into a turn and getting launched out like a rocket!
It would be really helpful for you to discuss multi-radius sidecuts, which skis have it or not, what that does for you, and how long does it take to adjust to that feature? Compare to those with a single sidecut radius, or conventional or whatever you call it.
I feel like we mention it more with Volkl than other brands, mostly because Volkl makes a big deal out of it, so we kind of follow suit. Atomic, Line, Fischer, Scott, and Head all seem to have some sort of multi-radius cut as well, but they don't push it quite as much as Volkl. I've noticed that in a ski like the Deacon 84, for example, when you're in a carved turn, you can press or release easier to have the ski go deeper or shallower in the turn. Understanding you can do this with any ski, it seems and feels more natural in the Deacon. The more you play with it the more you can tell it makes a difference. That said, if nobody ever told you that the Deacon 84 featured a 3D Radius Sidecut, my guess is you'd never know.
Thank you for doing this review - really appreciated - you guys are awesome. I would like to present a counterargument, to 'if you aren't on edge', these narrower 65-68 underfoot skis are 'twitchy'. As background, I grew up Canadian playing hockey - this is likely VERY key to understand before reading what I have to say. In my experience, it's completely the opposite - the narrower the LESS twitchy - when I get on wider skis, all that happens to me is that the side edge might grab if I stop concentrating and try and let them ride flat - when I'm skiing a 65 waisted SL or GS ski, my brain completely relaxes and I don't worry at all about ANY edges grabbing - it has simply NEVER happened to me - it only happens when I get to my wider 80-88 type skis - these are the skis that make me feel like I'm snow-boarding and if I don't remember which is the uphill edge, something might grab. We are all different and our own sporting history absolutely follows us into the ski world. I raised 3 kids - the first 2 were NHL-type drafted kids and I lived that world - it was also my own world as a kid. For my youngest, I decided that skiing would be more enjoyable as I could participate. It took me years to find any type of ski that felt natural and intuitive - it cost a lot of money, but finally strapping a race-type waisted ski onto my boots on a demo day, at the end of the season, and I simply couldn't believe how easy they were to ski - all I had to do was skate down the hill. I've watched every video produced by Jeff & Bob and guests over the last 5 years - they simply are an unmatched source of incredible information - take everything they say as true. If you happen to have been raised a hockey player, trust me when I say, race skis are what you want to ski - it is exactly like skating - your brain will revert to all the neurons you developed as a child to skate - and in basically 1 day I can have your carving down a steep.
Spot damn on!
Great feedback, Paul!
i would also add that early season not many runs are open and there are a lot of people and a good turny ski works well. that is why i use my slalom skis. my first wipe out of the year was when snowboard came out of nowhere and luckily i was on my slalom skis where i could do a quick turn and bail out of the way. if i was on my stockli 88s i would have barreled right through the snowboarder..
I am glad you guys brought up the Kastle.. It sounds like that is the same construction as my 96 FX HP and I can't wait to get on them.. I am not sure if I am going to get on them early season though. My main thing is that I do not want to hit rocks. If I get worn out from doing too many turns because of all the people I can just leave.
Finally ❤️
Thanks for the detailed reviews and recommendations! I'm an advanced intermediate skier who skis the west with my QST92. While it's been fun to use them as all mountain skis and the floatation definitely helped this season, I'm looking for another pair of skis in my quiver that I can take out on non-pow days to make nice turns on groomers.
Which pairs of skis should I look at? I'm 5'6" 160lb for reference, thanks!
We really enjoyed the Head Rally at 78 mm underfoot and the Thunderbird R15WB at 76 mm. Great groomer skis with fantastic edge grip. Even some versatility with these models!
Oh boy is this great ❄️⛷
Love your in depth perspective of what's out there in the market - somehow you manage to keep it interesting through the entire hour and a half of video. I'm looking for a decent set of carving skis for an intermediate/advanced skier. Looking at ones that are fast but for racing and forgiving a bit, comfortable, fun and can handle slopes that go from powder to icy slopes - predominately on the East coast groomers. I'm focusing on the Rossis - between the Hero Elite MT Ti and the Experience 86 Ti (or anything else that you think fits the bill). Any input would be appreciated.
Hi Trevor! I was leaning towards the Hero, but then I re-read your comment and saw where you mentioned powder. If you're looking for true versatility like that for different snow conditions, I would go with the Experience 86 Ti. It still feels great as a carving ski, it's just not quite as precise as the Hero. What you lose in precision, however, you make up for in all-mountain versatility. Hope that helps and sorry for the delayed reply! Busy time of year around here between the holiday schedule and order volume.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks mate! I appreciate the response - especially under the circumstances. Funny thing is that I first learned to ski at Stowe waaayyy back in the late 70s, so I'm glad to see it's come a long ways since then. I'm hoping to get the family down your way probably for next season if all goes well.
Heh, that WRT Pro footage from the main review in the cut up snowed over conditions. Hee hee. Thanks for the roundup team!\
That was some TOUGH skiing. You could feel the capabilities of the ski and what it wanted to do, the snow just didn't really let you do it.
Great Video guys! As I understand the matter the Q9 and the R15 WB are comparable. How do those compare to the Deacon 80? Looking for a one ski setup . Frontside only but all conditions and all day here in Europe. lower end of advanced I'd say. Looking for fun and energetic ride that is not draining. Thanks!
Interesting comparison. I would say the Deacon 80 leans a little more towards all-mountain than the Q9 or R15 WB. You do notice a quicker edge to edge feel on both of the narrower skis. The Deacon doesn't really lack any torsional stiffness for carving, it just doesn't feel quite as precise. Considering it's an all conditions ski for you, the Deacon may actually be the better option, although if you want to stick to a more frontside feel, I do think the Thunderbird and Redster are quite versatile given how good they feel on a groomer.
Thanks guys great comparison, I'm thinking about getting an older (pre-truecore) 180cm Brahma 82 and putting on a high rise Pivot specific Vist plate I've got off an old Dynastar GS.
Carvy! Have fun!
hey guys, thanks so much for this video. it’s the most extensive yet succinct out there. i love how you split the skis and went through with each model, it’s really helpful in learning about the differences and similarities between different models.
i’m currently an owner of head kore 93 and really loving the experience, however i’m looking for another pair that will handle higher speed carving better yet provide similar experience to these ones. they are amazing for powder snow and on piste but they get wobbly at higher speeds. 4 of these skis have caught my attention and i’m curious about what you’d recommendation for a 169cm, 70kg advanced skier who wants to keep developing the skills? (i’m a female but i prefer unisex skis) thank you!
If you're looking at a similar width, or maybe a bit narrower, I'd look at the Volkl Mantra/Secret or Kendo/Kenja range. The wider ones are 96 mm underfoot while the others are 88. I think the 88's will give you more control and grip on the groomers. I'd think the 163 would be a good size in these skis based on your stats and application.
Hi there, really great ski comparisons from you guys thanks! I'm 5'9 155 lbs and 58 year old Colorado intermediate who learned skiing as adult. I ski k2 pinnacle 88s and like them but theydon't hold a great edge in hard pack, which we've had more of last couple years due to lack of snow. I've been thinking about the blizzard Thunderbird sport r14 ca for better edge grip and progressing with carving but also on the lighter, less aggressive side. Does this seem like a right choice or is there other similar choices? Thanks! Hal
Loved the Pinnacle 88! You'll definitely get a better front side grip and performance out of that Thunderbird R14 Ca. Rossignol Experience 82 Basalt or Elan Wingman 82 Ti also make sense--a bit wider but still great front side skis that aren't too aggressive. Have fun!
SE
Hi guys, great video again I very much enjoy all your comparison videos. How would you say the Rossignol experience 82 Ti and Basalt compare to the Wingman 82. I live in Switzerland, my other skis are Rustler 9 with Shift bindings and Scott Cascade 110 with Marker Kingpins.
The Basalt version is definitely lighter and less performance oriented than either the Wingman Ti or CTi. The Experience 82 Ti is more in line with the Wingman Ti, as it has a bit more flex for all-mountain versatility. I think if you're in Switzerland and are looking for a more sturdy frontside ski, I'd recommend the Rossi 82 Ti. Have fun!
SE
Any recommendations for someone who’s skiing with kids but coming from P50’s, I bought 7-8 years ago Rossi Experience 78’s, they’re ok. Looking for something I ski with my kids at slower pace and still ski a bit harder on when I’m on my own. Ski on the east coast so mostly hard pack, man made or groomers. Rarely get powder even off trail, I’d say less then 10% of the time. Looked at the Black crow Divus, Stockli Montero, any other suggestions or which of these would you recommend? I was about to get the montero ax, then hesitated due to not sure if they will be easy enough to ski slower part of the time with my daughter and playful enough to take smaller jumps with my son that’s when I started looking at the Divus. I’m 6’3” and 185-190 lbs, so I think some metal in the ski would help. I don’t ski nearly as aggressive as 20 plus years ago on P50’s now that I’ve hit 40 but I’m also not a complete cruiser. I also bought a 8-9 years ago Rossi twin tips figuring I can ski backwards while teaching my kids, they’re now more intermediate skiers (10&12) and those were chatter boxes. Thanks
Divus jumps out to me as a good choice, and I agree that with Montero, you're getting a pretty rugged ski. I'd check out the Volkl Deacon 80 as well--nice and quick but also has a pretty high end. Have fun!
SE
Hi guys, nice video.
I am deciding between the Völkl Deacon 80, Rossignol Experience 82 Ti, the Fischer RC One 82 GT, Salomon S/Force and Elan WIngman.
I have no problem skiing down the black slopes and like to go fast, but sometimes I want to do chill sessions. I mainly ski the slopes, but I like to do a little off-piste when I want to.
Do you guys have any recommendations?
The Deacon 80 is an easy answer--that ski does it all, and has a great blend of performance and versatility. You're getting more demanding as you go to the next skis on your list, so minimizing the chill aspect. I'd say the Deacon is a great choice with the Rossignol not far behind.
Hi guys, thank you for the videos, they're great!
I am a 41 year old, 188cm/86kg athletic advanced skier who enjoys speed and mid to large turns on good prepared blue and red wide glacier slopes in Austria around 10 days per season, but still has to improve his carving technique. I own the 2015 Rossignol Pursuit 14x in 170cm, which helped me progress from a beginner and which I enjoy very much, but I wonder if it's still the right ski for me, because it's the only ski I've skied on so far. Are there any better models who can also carry me through the day in changing weather and snow conditions out there? Which one would you recommend from the Rossi line?
Hi Andre! I would recommend the Hero Carve. That's going to be the best ski for continuing to progress your carving. If you wanted to step it up another notch, you could consider the Hero Elite MT as well. That ski is going to be stiffer and with greater torsional stiffness/edge grip, and it's still not tremendously demanding and relatively approachable. Hope that helps!
Thank you for the amazing overview, the Fischer RC ONE 82 sounds like a fun mostly groomer ski but with some flexibility. Are there any very noticeable differences, besides the width, between this and the 78 underfoot variant?
The 82 feels stiffer and more demanding. While the 78 is slightly quicker and more agile, if you're leaning more to the powerful side of the spectrum, the 82 is the one to get.
And the RC One 82's compared to the Wingmans? Especially for versatility, when conditions get worse on groomers throughout the day, which leans more to the 'all mountain(ish)' side of the spectrum? I've had some Salomon smax 10's before, but I found them really hard to ski whenever the conditions gotten anything other then perfect.
I'm quite big (192cm, 92kg), so balancing stability and springiness will always be a challenge.
Now I seen the 90mm review and also this. Can you give some advice for a two ski quiver combo in frontside ski and a 85-100mm allmountain ski.
Yes. Get the Thunderbird R15 WB for a 76 mm underfoot front side and a Nordica Unleashed 98 for a fun-loving yet poppy all-mountain ski.
Thanks for the great reviews!
Im still looking for a ski and i need to decide between the brahma 82 SP and the Salomon S/Force 80.
I am 185cm, 84kg andvanced skier from Europe/Austria.
Do you have an recommendations?
Thanks!
The Brahma is considerably more versatile than the S/Force 80. If you're off-piste at all, I'd go with the 82.
Some nice input in this one, enjoyed it - as every other!
Hope you take your precious time once again and help me out :)
I'm a smaller (1,71), lightweight (< 60 kg) expert (like the lower to mid expert bracket) skier, mostly to be found on piste. I own Kore 87 in 171cm (85 under foot) and a QST 98. The Kore is just too stiff for my weight and not so nice to my knees. I can push it and get the performance out of it, but it takes quite some effort. So it comes i'm looking for a replacement.
I'm mostly concerned about the stiffness of my candidates, but happy about any other input as well. Due to my weight, i don't expect that i'm able to overpower any of my candidates.
What i'm looking at are the Stöckli AX, PX81, BC Divus, Declivity 82 TI, Stöckli AR, BC Vertis and the Ripstick 88. If i'm not going Vertis or AR, i probably end up buying Ripstick 88 + X.
What would help me a ton would be a stiffness rating of these in comparison to my Kore 87. Say the Kore is 9 / 10, where would you rate the ones i'm looking at? I have a sneak feeling the Stöcklis will be too stiff, but they are also too interesting to not at least think of them 😀
Hi Pat!
I'll do my best with stiffness ratings given that Kore is a 9. AX: 7, PX: 4, Divus: 5, Declivity: 6, AR: 7, Vertis: 4, RS88: 3.5. I think that the AR is a great ski, but it is on the stiff and heavy side of the spectrum. The Vertis and Declivity make a lot of sense in my mind as versatile and relatively narrower carvers.
I ended up with the Thunderbird Sport Ti. It's been a blast so far.
Nice! Great skis!
Just curious, who is the skier in the Rossi Hero Elite MT footage in the red jacket (around minute 33)? Super impressive skiing.
That's our friend Greg! We love watching him ski Liftline at Stowe so we invited him to test skis! Not disappointed. Collegiate racer.
How do you compare the Montero AX to the Laser SX?
A bit more supple of a flex in the SX and more approachability as a result. At 70 mm wide versus 80 in the AX, the SX is definitely more of a sharp-turner with better torsional stiffness.
I’m looking to purchase e-Rally or Stockli AX as dedicated groomer skis. I’m coming from above 90 widths(mantra m6, unleashed 98), and I’m hoping to improve my carving skills, and attain bigger edge angles. I’m a 6’2” 240+lb big guy. What do you recommend?
Hard to argue against the AX! It's about as smooth as it gets. The Rally is better suited for on-trail performance only while the Stockli has some versatility to it. I'd go AX in the 182.
Great review as always! Really nice to hear about the Scott Pure Piste, I'd never heard of it before! I had the impression you saw some similarities between the Scott and the Stöckli AX; how exactly would these two compare?
There's a bit more pop and pep to the Scott while the Stockli is smoother and quieter overall. If you like sharp and crisp rebound, the Scott will deliver but if you like silence underfoot, there's no comparing with the AX.
@@SkiEssentials Great to hear that, many thanks!
Wouldn’t the Fischer GT The Curv been a good candidate for this wall? Just curious where it would fit in comparison as I’m looking to add another carver to the quiver. I have the version just prior to the latest update. Any suggestions? (I LOVE that Fischer).
We're huge fans of the Curv GT as well, and it would have fit in great with the other 76's on the wall. We were not able to purchase them for this year, and we're kind of sad about that. If you like the Fischer, check out the Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB--that's one of our favorites up there for sure.
@@SkiEssentials you can imagine how nice it was to hear your reply after literally just finding a pair (R15 WB) in perfect condition for a steal at a local swap! Listening to you guys describe them, plus the construction and specs already had me leaning that direction. Thanks as always for all you guys do, as well as for the reply. Hope you have a great season!
Great review as always! It is a pleasure to watch your videos!
I want to buy armada declivity 82ti, i am 1,70 and 65 kg, only use for groomers. Should I go for 1,74 or 1,66?😢 thanks so much!
I'd say the 166 will be better for your stats and application. Have fun!
SE
Hello guys I need your insight. I am from Europe mostly ski in the Alps maybe the Tatry, so mainly groomers, but I want a ski thats capable to ride in all day conditions, mainly bumps towards the end of the day. I am an enthusiastic intermediate skier, parallel turns are okay on blues and reds, carving is very much work in progress. I am around 185 cm and 82kg and got a pretty good deal on a Völkl Deacon 80 from 2022 in 177cm size, would it be a good ski for learning carving and improving for me? My friends tell me that i should stick to narrower and shorter carving skis, but this 80 seems to be such a good deal.
I think that 80 is a fantastic choice, and if you get it at a price, so much the better!
Is Rossi still making the Hero Elite Plus (78mm in the waist), or has it been replaced by the new MT.
No more plus. I would say the new MT is the closest thing to it in the current line, even though it's 74 and not 78 underfoot.
Head E magnum vs atomic q9 vs Rossi hero st. I’m 6’5 240 love to carve. Already have enforcer 94 and kore 99. I owned imagnums but sold them for redster s9 165. I think they were a little too much ski at 165. I liked the I magnum 177 @14.3 radius. Being tall I just feel better on a longer ski but love that tight radius. Help please
There are considerably more similarities than differences between these skis. I'd say the Magnum strikes a nice balance because it's a mid-radius ski, and so incredibly stable. The Atomic is more agile and quick edge to edge, and that ST is really just a user friendly slalom ski.
I have the wingman. At a little faster strait skiing around 60 or 70km/h the ski are twitching like having a bend wheel or something. What's that about?
Do you have them on the right feet? How's the tune?
Hey guys - long time viewer first time commenter. These long form review videos are fantastic. Loving the increased on mountain footage this year! I’m a beginner-intermediate skier (15 days total, ski primarily blues comfortably) and own a pair of Kore 93s that I enjoy. However, I feel they may be holding me back from really improving my overall technique. I tend to skid my turns and have trouble feeling feedback from the ski. Perhaps bc of the Kore’s stiffness and poor beginner-intermediate technique? Taking lessons this year and looking for a narrower groomer-focused ski to help my technique progress. Something I can learn to feel ski feedback on, how to use my edges properly, carve, etc. What ski would you recommend to help me progress? 6’1 185lbs. Thanks!
If you're looking for a good on-trail ski that'll help you improve, I'd take a look at the Volkl Deacon 80, Rossignol Exprience 82 Basalt, or on the narrower side, the Blizzard Thunderbird Ti Sport. Lots to like about these skis! I'd look to the mid 170's for length in these models. Have fun!
SE
I'm in the process of buying a pair of new skis. My preferences are the Atomic Redster Q9 and Head Supershape e-Rally. But I'm not sure what to go for. I am kind of between intermediate and advance skier and relatively small with 174cm. What would you suggest?
The Q9 feels a bit more nimble and agile than the Rally, which is heavier and more rugged. I think the Q9 will offer a greater chance of success.
Nice vid. Can you do a vid of recommendations of skis for skiers who want to learn how to carve? I can’t find anything like that. I find lots of articles and vids about skis for folks who already know how to carve. But what about this that don’t know how to carve and want to learn. Thank you.
We point it out when applicable. Skis like the Head E-V8 come to mind as great beginning carving skis.
I. Qould you please tell me between the deacon 76, the redster q9, the disruption 78ti, nordica sf 80rb, the hero elite plus ti and the salomon force 80ti which one has the most allmountain capabalities?
(I’ve had no problems skiing race skis off-piste im just looking for around 80/20 on and off trail)
II. How much quicker is the disruption 78ti than the 82ti edge to edge?
Thank you in advance!
For all-mountain, I'd say the Disruption, mainly because it's on the lighter side of the spectrum. It's about 10% quicker from edge to edge vs. the 82 based on width. Have fun!
SE
@@SkiEssentials thanks guys, appreciate your answer!
Anothet question came to mind, whether or not a deacon 80 would have noticeably less performance on firm snow(upper advanced level) than the recreational race skis I am used to.
I'm 5'11, 170 lbs advanced skier. Was wondering which length of the Blizzard Thunderbird R15 I should get?
I'd go 175 in that ski based on your stats and application. Have fun!
SE
I’ve skied the Nordica Dobermann Spitfire Pro last winter. What skis would be a step up? I found the Nordica skis super fun to carve but they felt very uncomfortable at higher speeds ie. straightlining a section of a steep run
Edit: I do groomed runs only
Edit 2: ok got it, the skis on the left are more advanced. Thanks for the video!
We've had a lot of fun on the Blizzard Firebird HRC for this application--shouldn't be too turny for straighter skiing. Definitely check those out.
SE
love to hear your opinion of the blizzard thunderbird sport ti in the 175
It's great. Easy to turn, not too demanding, but still has that race-like feel on the groomers. While it's not quite as stable or strong as the Thunderbird R15, it's still got a very high-performance ceiling.
Hey all, I’m considering moving from my Kanjo 84s to more of a quiver. I live in the Midwest and have been improving as a skier. And because as much as wide skis are cool, I spent 90% of my season on groomed snow, I’m considering something with that bent. But I’m trying to figure out what will feel noticeably more hard charging than the Kanjo while not being “too much” ski for a person who isn’t racing. Based on the descriptions and poking around I’m inclined to think Deacon 76 or K2 Disruption MTI would be a ski I can learn to push more and be more speed oriented than the Kanjo. But still be accessible and something I could ski all day. Any interesting in giving some input? Thanks for all the good content!
I think if you're looking in that mid to upper 70's range, the Deacon is a bit more demanding than the K2, which is lighter and slightly more maneuverable. You can certainly ski either of these all day, you just have to keep them on the groomers--off piste on these skis can be more challenging. We've also really enjoyed the Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB as well as the Head Supershape e.Rally. Both of those fall somewhere in between the MTi and the Deacon in terms of demand.
@@SkiEssentials super helpful as always. It’s always hard to parse different descriptions of skis- K2 makes it sound like their MTIs are full blown racers. Fantastic suggestion, the Blizzard actually sounds most in line with what I’m looking for after watching your in depth review.
Hi guys What would be your choice between a blizzard thunderbird r15 wb or atomic redster x9 wb? (The redster have a 40% discount and the blizzard 20% in my store) Which one will be the best overall?
Way more similarities than differences between those skis. If you're getting a better deal on one, that's the one to get. Both are supremely fantastic on-trail carving skis.
Is there any difference between the new Stance 80s and last year's model besides the graphics?
Nope! Same ski!
Which skis would be best for both front-side carving and lots of steep moguls when it hasn't snowed in a while? Or would you choose a completely different ski?
Scott Pure Piste 77 rips in the bumps. Not the strongest carver, but great in bumps. Montero AX is a good choice. That's essentially what I'm going to use my personal pair for this season. Then the slightly wider skis are great too. Brahma 82, Divus, RC One 82 GT, Experience 82 Ti, Declivity 82 Ti. All of those skis can rip carves and handle moguls really well too.
Is the deacon 80 more or less energic than the kanjo? Im thorn between those 2 skis? What 's your opinion on this plz.
The build is pretty darn similar, with both having a glass frame and metal underfoot, but the shape of the Deacon is much more front-side oriented and therefore more energetic. If you're looking for snap and pop on the trails, I'd go Deacon all day.
@@SkiEssentials thx again guys!
Patiently waiting for the powder and touring ski comparisons......
Park skis also
Powder first!
should i size down in length for the head super shapes?
Not necessarily. Generally skis of this ilk run in shorter sizes, so a 177 in the Rally might mean you ski a 185 in an all-mountain ski.
Where does head e race pro fit into that wall?
At or near the beginning (left side). I'd say right with the WRC.
How many of these reviews have edits because one ski slid a little and took the whole wall crashing down? ;) Great job as always, BTW!
I don't think it's ever happened in filming, but definitely in setup.
Of all the skis in this category which one is best in the moguls? Looking for a good bump ski that is also fun on the groomers!
I think the easy answer is the Stance 80, but a close second is the Divus. Both of these are just light and quick and easy to ski. Divus has a better on-trail carving character.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks for your response! I have been narrowing in on the Divus or the Declivity 82 for a while.
Hey guys would love a spotlight on best bump/tree ski comparison. I know you guys always point out what would be good for that application but it would be nice to have it in one place to narrow my selection.
I have been told all kinds of whacky suggestions from shops that make no sense when it comes to what is needed to pivot in tight trees and bumps. Any suggestions for a fun maneuverable tree ski that won’t slide out of icy east coast groomers to get to them?
BTW thanks guys for all of the awesome content!!!!
There's some good skis in the ~90 mm underfoot range for bumps and trees. Two of my favorites are the Atomic Bent 90 and the Black Crows Captis. Neither of these are particularly grippy on the ice, so something like the Elan Ripstick 88 makes a lot of sense, it's just not quite as floaty as the other two. Dynastar M-Pro 85 and Volkl Kanjo fit this bill in the mid-80's range, and if you're looking to go slightly wider, check out the Salomon QST 92 and the Line Blade Optic 92. I think this span will get you what you need, and with special attention paid to the Ripstick. Have fun!
SE
Ray, You are looking for the same type of ski that I prefer. I have owned/skied a few of the models the guys listed above. Me: Strong expert skier/40-45 days a season/if the woods-natural trails are open that is where I am/groomers are for getting around, not for skiing :) My reviews are East Coast biased, people out west may have a different take.
Atomic Bent 90 - Probably the best mogul ski that is not a mogul ski that I have ever been on. As the guys say in some reviews, this ski makes me a better skier (moguls). An absolute blast to ski. Super quick underfoot, lots of fun in the trees, loves to dance around, fun on groomers on the days you can get an edge. However, this is a 2 quiver ski. You are going to need something else for the bullet-proof days. (Current ski)
QST 92 - Also a great ski. Not as good in the bumps as the Bent. This is not a knock on the QST's they're great, but the Atomics are just next level. Surfy feel. Great for the trees. Better than the Bents as they have a wider shovel and better float; especially during/after a storm when you are digging around for powder. Given their shape they are also a better carver than the Bents. Tons of fun and super playful on the groomers assuming you have grip. One quiver ski?? Well, for a couple of years it was for me. But on those firm days I really wished for something better and finally broke down and bought an ice ski.
Ripstick 88 - Broken record, but these are also great skis! Since they are stiffer under foot these are the best carvers of the group. lost of fun ripping around (see what I did there?), and have the best firm snow grip. That said, the shovel is insanely soft, and they are still super fun in bumps and the trees. On the less than perfect days, which we have a lot of, they give you tons of confidence in the trees and rock hard bumps because you can actually hold an edge, unlike the other 2. Out of the three, these are the best 1 quiver ski. The only downside is that they are right/left specific. So if you blow out an edge, there is no "just put it on the outside" option.
Every single one of these skies I would own. If you handed me one and told me I could only ski that one, I would be perfectly happy.
@@ckk9315 this is a huge help. Thank You!!!!
@@ckk9315 do you think the Ripstick 88 would be good @172 for an 5’9” stout guy? My 177’s are just too long in the east coast trees.
@@raym9434 Not sure. I'm 5'6" and 155 and that is what I ski. IIRC in their most recent review Bob said he would definitely want the longer ski in the RS88. All 3 of those I skied in their 170-175 range, I don't recall the RS feeling short. But I am not a big guy. I think Jeff is 5'9". I'm not sure what size he skied. It would be in the video.
I am looking for a skis for my 18 year old son. He likes to ski fast but also enjoys moguls. Which ones of these skis would you recommend?
To clarify, is your son 8? If so, I'd check our Junior ski category for more age/size appropriate choices: www.skiessentials.com/collections/junior-alpine-skis
If you meant a different age, please respond!
@@SkiEssentials He is 18. He will be 19 before next season. There was a typo.
OK. I am only into this vid as far as the Stockli WRT. Points: 1. Comparing Civilian skis to FIS. FIS SL's will eat your ACL if you are not in total harmony because they hate to skid and Never Let Go; probably because that Base Bevel is so Flat. 30meter FIS GS need 50+mph to allow Inclination to provide higher edge angles for a railed turn; Slower and you are displacing the ski: "skidding' it to turn it.
2. For Serious people skiing a lot 60-80-100days; for many seasons; Anything over 65 underfoot is a compromise; ( well up to about 70mm). That 'hockey skate' is what allows the G-forces to come from your 130Flex w/ footbeds; directly up the Tibia for the stacked feeling we love.
2.1: FATS = 80mm+ for me; Just Feel Dumb... Useful; but I Know what I'm missing. And if you haven't been out on a 66mm you are not qualified...
Fact: People who want to Learn How will do better on skinny skis.
3. This soft snow should have mag-lev smoothed out these Modern skis and been an easy; but very good time. You Know these 15meter skis are really a gas when you don't demand a super clean 15.3742meter diamond scratch every turn. They wanna Arc; so use that loose stuff to provide variability in turn size.
4. For eg: Who is on the WRT vids displacing the ski ? Less is More on Modern skis: RELAX. Ski the ski right out from under you ( Lorenz, McGlashin, vids ) Later: watching you guys on other skis = better skiing.
5. Bonus point: There is nothing more sublime than a 19-21-23 meter master's GS in knee-deep cold snow. Projectioni+Inclinationi+Angulationi and the ski will always be there when you need something to land on. Well: there is one thing better and that is a grooomer with shin-deep mag-lev...on a Master's GS.
6. Of course this looks so desperate when it gets warm or crusty; so get wider When Appropriate... 'Sometimes a skid is your friend' .... But look for a GS feeel in your wider skis. Exceptions made for tight terrain and snow temp/depth ... or fatigue.
7. $2,300Cdn Bucks for them Stocklis, $1,600 fer the Fish's. This deserves a comment because the rocks are still free.
Fischer CT is about as close to FIS as a 15m can get. " Particle Physics. The harder-the stronger. The faster-the farther. Loved it. Feared it. Not an all day ski. Wow." The Fischer SC is smoother. "Whatcha'got? This is smoother. ...and the back-seat is farther away than the CT. Precise but encouraging. "
Frontside!!!!!!!!😊
Have the Brahma 82 changed in the last few years? Or I could be good buying a pair from 2021?
They moved to the TrueBlend Piste wood core for this past year, so it's slightly different from 2021. Not a huge/wholesale difference, but a bit more sophistcated.
Thank you! So they changed on 2022 or 2023?
I wonder where the Laser SC fits in this comparison?
I'd put it between the e-Speed and the MTi. Nice, short turning ski with a narrow waist--lots of fun!
Great review as always. The institution of ski reviews! As for the skis, this is the pinnacle of performance and technology, the race cars of skis. However, as the race cars, they require nothing short of perfect conditions, all else makes them tiresome and even dangerous if you dont pay attention. Question is, how many times you have great condituons in the real world. It is so funny when I see someone with Redster S9 FIS in the middle of the day when pistes are destroyed. These are not just hardpack skis, they are ice skis. A while ago myself was a big fan of such narrow frontside skis and was ready to argue that wider, 80+ mm skis are no match. Well, with age I guess, I started to prefer wider, lighter, easier to handle skis. Easy to handle does not mean performance is low, it is just more reachable. In the dream quiver one should definitely has such hardcore pair to remember the sensation of the turn, but a daily driver, no way.
Someone in my camp... Nothing against these front side rippers and the people with tree trunk legs and talent to ski them, but not for me. I grew up in the day of longer and stiffer. That really hurt my skiing. I once had a pair of Volkl 6 stars. Then I demoed the Solomon Tornado and fell in love. They were el dente noodles in comparison but I didn’t have to fight them for the whole day and I could actually make the Tornados work for me. The 6 Stars went to the re-sale store not long after. Now my “front side” skis are the Volkl Kanjo. But, even here in the NE, my Line Sick Days are my favorite for most of what I ski.
That said... This is a great time to be a skier. There is a ski out for everyone. These guys do great reviews, sorting through all of them and making our choice easier. They are the reason I have the Kanjos... Keep up the great work.
If you cant ski FIS SL ski in any condition you need to work on your technique.
Technique may be there, but the point is some of us don’t find these skis to be fun...
@@Eddie07S Ah that really depends on your definition of fun.
Do not get me wrong, if you have more than 2 pairs of skis you should definitely have one of these on the left side of the wall. The sheer performance and feel they provide is something you cannot have on wider, lighter skis. However, being able to ride FIS ski in any condition does not mean you should. Everything short of perfect groomers is a big compromise for them. It took me many years to get to this conclusion. After skiing Redsters for years went all the way to 100mm underfoot pair of Bentchetlers and felt like I am reborn. Skiing all day, no matter what, is soo satisfying. It is like a pair of trainers, go anywhere do anything. Yes, they are not hardpack skis, they are not very stable at speed, but I am fine with that, I am not an athlete. This season my piste ski will be a bit stiffer, but still 80mm+ underfoot, maybe Kendo. If at some point want to feel that power and performance would go for a rent.
I can't decide between atomic g9's and volkl deacon master 72's for on piste skiing with the ability to go briefly into poorer snow conditions along side the trail and piste trees
I like the ruggedness of the Deacon Master 72 in an off-piste perspective. It's a sturdier ski than the G9, but that G9 is quite a bit more agile and exacting than the WC style build of the Volkl. I'd say the Volkl is more versatile while still having a supremely high level of carving prowess.
Could you do a video about women's frontside skis ?
We're planning a women's freeride comparison, then, if there's time, we'd love to do frontside skis as well! We're hiring more women to work on our content staff so we can have more and more women's specific videos like this in the future.
I think brad is right in regard of the bhrama,it is a one trick pony.if you try to bend a brhama in soft snow,good luck ...On the other hand i steel remenber "the perfect carving day" that i had on it.
Will you guys be doing women and mens powder skis? :D
We've got a lot of powder skis on our wall right now! should be done soon.
Ok straight up, what is the fastest ? GS, slalom, resort piste
Modern GS skis with longer radii are considerably more stable at speed than SL or resort piste skis. www.skiessentials.com/products/2020-nordica-dobermann-gs-wc-race-dept-skis-w-race-plate?ski%2520size=193
Where are the WRT Pro? You sold them out already? Skiing WRTs in soft snow is doable, I spent lots of time on them in spring slush last year. Doable but needs different technique and different tuning. Still for those used to wide ski, caution is advisable. If you try to skid or smear turns on this that won't work well. Pivoting in soft snow is not what they are made for. Same as Ferrari are not made for mud races.
And on firm groomers these are the best ski on the planet.
Wish we had them. Looks like we didn't order any for this year. Will speak to head buyer imminently.
How about a beer league review?
this ^^^ for higher-end skiers and former competitive racers. Most "regular" adults will do better on something in the ~72 mm range like Dobermann Spitfire 72.
Somebody wasn't watching where they were going at 1:06:30
Human slalom at its finest!
blooper real!!
blizzard wrc are amazing they are my babies I bought them last year from you guys and beyond love them.....lol ❤💪😎🤙🏂⛷🎿. there beyond beyond fast just such stable, stiff,fast and precise accurate fighter jet. they turn well a little demanding but as a blackbelt in jiu jitsu 🥋that trains people. I'm 5 11 and 183 so I'm quite fit but I love that it's a demanding but responsive rewarding precision jet....so much fun...not the best in deep snow but that's not what there worth
it's such a powerful ski and what a ride....beyond adrenaline....I got marker 18 on them with that faceplate you can live on the edge there soooo stable