I just wanted to say thank you for all the great useful videos you produce. I’m so happy for this specific video because I see so much hype on wide all mountain skis when SO many people that buy them never go off piste and then leave when conditions get choppy by midday. I’m a proud piste skier, whether it’s morning groom, hardpack, icy, etc. I’m glad companies are still producing skis for people like me.
Thanks! Definitely makes sense from a reality perspective--most skiers spend most of their time on groomers--why not have the right skis for that application!
Thank you Ski Essentials for restoring my faith in you. I was worried that you'd forgotten what Real Skis were. I was worried that Everyone in North America had forgotten. I'm a full-time ski-bum and it depresses me when I go into a ski-shop and am jeered at by a Wall-full-o' Mid-Fats: the general public's placebo-soother. It also bums me out that Real Skis are all in the Fifteen Hundred Bucks range. A decent coverage of the most of The Crop: Gotta throw a mention of Fischer RC4 RC and CT... but the Atomic and Stockli are probably in that park. Woulda gone Volkl Racetiger: Deacons are for those driving BMW SuV's. ps: Race Skis @27 and 30r are way-over-rated on public roads. I mean 50Mph with no inspection-runs or fencing and civilians is not a way to health and longevity.
Great feedback, thanks for sharing! Many skiers in North America are just on skis that are too wide for the conditions and terrain that they actually ski.
@@SkiEssentialsthat’s the biggest difference between North America and Europe - they pick an appropriate ski to their terrain, ability and snow conditions. Americans seem to think the fatter the ski the better. 😂😂
As an old-timer I have to chuckle at the waist widths on the skis. I have never skied anything over a 63 Under Foot for front side. Of course, I started on straight skis (hard to teach an old dog new tricks) LOL.
You guys do the best reviews on the internet!! Pretty hard for me to sit and watch a review for this amount of time but you keep it interesting 😂 I’m a huge stockli fan and own those SC’s and love them!
Jeff, i LOVE that you bring up that Nordica you had on the wall. I'm pretty sure my memory doesn't fool me, but didn't you want to ride that thing if a certain amount of likes are given. We're waiting :) Expecting nothing but a full Skiessentials review.
always a pleasure to watch your program. Great deal if information and skis to learn about. I THINK YOU GUYS HAVE THE BEST WAY OF PRESENTING SKIS AND THEIR ABILITIES. I have seen many similar programs from many countries and can honestly say they don't match yours at all. Your program is more comprehensive and easy to understand what you talk about. Great job and keep it up, I'm sure your viewers appreciate it very much.
Always funny to see the American point of view of carving skis. On a European wall probably 50% of the Skis would be slalom skis. And skis like the X9 are probably the best selling Atomic Skis besides the S9. Great video as always!
My biggest problem with frontside skis, even sub-85, is that I don’t like the top sheets as much. I know it “doesn’t matter” but I like having skis that look nice and so many top sheets range from “meh” to “bleh”
I hear you. Some are better than others. The Laser SC is probably my favorite, but yes, there's a lot of flashy reds and strange patterns going on here.
Another fantastic review by the Doctors of Skiology! This is my favourite category- carving. I have last years HRC’s and I love them. Looking forward to the on hill review of the new model! Cheers 🍻
Thanks! We're looking forward to new HRC as well--that one snuck under our radar until this summer so we didn't really prioritize it last winter, unfortunately. A mistake we will not make again!
These are skis that you basically learn how to execute turns and become proficient in time. Your videos are great and I truly enjoy your discussions. Guys you forgot the Fischer RC4 series!
Skied the Blizzard HRC 180cm for 5 weeks in Europe this winter for ski instructor training courses. I'm 5'10" 180lbs. Handled soft bumps superbly, icy bumps will punish anyone who falls in to the backseat. It likes to be skied on its toes. Short & Long turns are it's domain but it really comes alive at 40mph+ and is effortless to stivot at high speed. Variable snow is challenging but doable. The HRC will improve anyone's skiing for those looking to step up a level. A truly great ski.
Wouldn’t argue with your comments on the Deacon Master 72, but associating it with the K2 might frighten people off. It’s ridiculously easy to ski for what it is and has a fun versatile radius.
I've skied S9's for over 5 years and have two pair one is worn out, so I am adding a replacement, so just received a pair of Nordica WC SL FIS with the 14mm race plate for next season. It'll give me something to look forward to until winter arrives again. Love the reviews you do. New England icy slopes are fun to ski on SL's.
I know skiessentials is a business and these videos must ultimately increase sales (apart from top 5 Fridays which is just awesome!), but honestly you guys do such a great service to our mad hobby so please accept my huge thanks! I heard you mention the Rossignol Hero Master LT, has the 24/25 model changed other than the graphic update? Would love for you guys to review the Fischer RC4 World Cup CT, also the Salomon Addikt Pro 76 seems to be making waves over here in Europe. Thanks again!
thanks! We have fun doing it all. The LT stays the same, we have a hard time getting our hands on that Fischer, and the Addikt will be unavailable in North America due to our ongoing drug problem (and that's not a joke). Would love to ski that Salomon, though!
@@SkiEssentials Thanks for the info! Strange it's hard to find that Fischer over here in Europe too, guess they don't make too many of them. Wow crazy about the Salomon, is it just because of it's name it's not allowed? Yeah I'd love to have a go on them too I've heard great things from those who got to demo them early.
What would you guys recommend if I'm looking for a more "approachable" low 70's mm ski as a 160lbs intermediate skier currently liking the feel of the Volkl Deacon XTD (76mm)? Concerned the Deacon 72 (not even the master) is too stiff for what I need.
Hi Guys, Thanks for the video, absolutely love your reviews. I currently have a pair of Camox 2022 at 174cm, as my one-ski quiver, which I absolutely love it, but I do find it starts to get very chatty if I push it at speed, so I would love to expand my collection with a carving ski that I can take out, partially in the first half of the day on those beautliful morning groomers to charge hard at high speeds. I would probably consider myself an intermediate to upper intermediate skier, so I am by no means an expert in carving - I raced a handful of times at uni, but I don't live anywhere close to mountains, so do not have the oppertunity to regualrly train. I would love to improve my carving and even potentially get a ski, that may be slightly a bit out of my current ability range, but one that I can grow into. I would be absolutely grateful for any recommendation you could give. I thought your review of the K2 Disruption Ti2 sounded really exciting, but that it also may be a bit too much ski for me? I would appreciate your thoughts and thank you much in advance!!
The Ti2 is one of the more interesting skis out there, but yes, it does beg for speed and aggression. I think if you're looking for a non-race carver, something in the low to mid-70's makes sense, but I also wouldn't rule out some skis in the 76 range. Blizzard Thunderbird R15 is one of the better ones we've skied at 76. Nordica Spitfire 74, Atomic Redster Q9, and Volkl Deacon/Peregrine 76 are all top-shelf carvers with a bit more surface area underfoot for balance and stability.
You are my goto reviewers. I have a set of 2024 Spitfire 80's that I ski most of the season on in Montana. I was thinking of getting a set of Multigara's to use in a Masters Race class this 2025 season. I'm 53 and been skiing for about 8 years. Do you think the difference. is worth it for this specific use?
The Multigara has double the metal, so it will bring with it more stability and power. Also with the narrower waist, you're getting increased edge grip due to torsional stiffness. It's a pretty nice update in terms of race-like performance for sure.
Nothing on that wall comes close to WRT Pro. Well except for the other WRT that is… On Rossis-you could have thrown in the Masters yeah, they are far superior to the Elite but the Athletes probably wont be a good fit as they are the FIS ski and hence-not everybody’s cup of tea.
Hey, What are your thoughts on the new head oblivion 79, and maybe last years 79. Im a medium skilled freestyle skier who likes to do big jumps and rails. Could this ski be a good option?
Hi Guys, what recent or new model from other brands would you say it´s similar to the Hero Elite LT? Im looking for buying a ski similiar to the Hero Elite LT, but a bit more advanced/challenging. I´ve been looking at the Head E Race/ Head E Race Pro, but I am a bit scared they are a bit too much challenging. I´ve also looked at the Fisher RC4 but I am not sure which exact model is the right one for me. I love carving and I am advanced skier. I´ve been using the Hero Elite I while now (3 years or more) and I think I am ready for a bit of a jump and more racing aspects in the ski, what ski would you recommend? Thank You!
There's not really anything between the Hero Elite LT and the E Race series. That's the next level up from a ski like the LT with the full beech wood core. I'd say similar skis to the Head would be the Rossignol Hero Master LT, Atomic Redster G9, or the Stockli Laser GS.
@@SkiEssentials Hi Guys, thank you for the response, you are great! What would you say it is the difference between the new Head E Race and the Atomic Redster G9. Would you say the Redster are a bit more forgiving? I was ready to go for the Head E Race but I heard that if your not instructor or instructor level, they are not for you (and I am not there just yet).
@@Pedro-y1w They are both one step below the race room build with more forgiving shapes. It would take a very skilled and experienced skier to be able to differentiate between the two. If you feel like you are outgrowing your LT, then this is the next move.
I'd take the Elite MT for a bit more precision at the end of the turn but also more power. I like the 60, but am a bit strong/heavy for it in longer turns. I'd take it in the 175 probably, so about chin-high.
Great comparison!🎉 how would you compare these skis in vibration damping? I find these skis have different technology for this but how do they compare to each other?
Just wondering if the tailored carbon tips in the deacon 72/76 and masters skis are a significant update over the UVO object from the 2020 skis and if its worth the upgrade?
I think the new tech works great and is a nice upgrade over the UVO, which was more a damping tech versus the carbon tips that actually help with initiation and precision.
The K2 feels more like the Kastle than the Peregrine, so if you're looking for a sharper, more angular ski for total groomer ripping, the Ti2 is one of the best out there. Peregrine is great, but takes a bit off the top compared to the K2.
Why you consider Stockli Laser WRT ST / PRO in length of 162 cm as a strange size? Do you mean the radius of >13 m which is typically slalom-like or is it to short to hold on edges for let's say an average skier?
Hi team, I managed to pick up a pair of discounted Stockli Montero AXs (178cm,16.5m) last season. I really love them, they feel super damp and stable at speed. However, I am looking for something slightly thinner that’s a bit more reactive for on piste performance. It would be interesting to know if any of these do this with the stability of stockli. I’ve got my instructor level 3 so would be looking for something that can do a variety of turns, I’ve heard the Rossi MT is a good ski for this, potentially the Stockli SC/wrt? I’m 6’4 190lbs
If you like the overall fit and finish of the Montero, the WRT SC is a fantastic choice. You get the same stability and power but with more reactivity and precision. The MT will feel plasticky compared to the WRT.
Hi Jeff / Bob. Wonder if you can give me a minute to help. I’m based in the UK and ski shops over here are limited and we have little chance to try before we buy. I am looking at new frontside skis this year and have narrowed the choice to Salomon Addikt Pros or Head E-Original supershapes. Any advice or thoughts you, or anyone else in the hive, can offer? Thanks in advance.
The Salomon hasn't reached North America quite yet so we haven't skied it but it looks awesome. The Original is a very slalom-oriented ski with excellent grip and stability. You'll get great power and control out of that ski, but it doesn't like to run straight or flat. Sticking with a shorter radius but a bit friendlier of a character, check out the new Blizzard Thunderbird R13--that one has a more accessible turn shape and style while still keeping performance at a maximum.
Thanks so much for getting back to me. Great service given we are 3096 miles apart. Unfortunately Blizzard isn’t a major manufacturer in the Uk. Think I will go for the Heads, I’m off to France in January and it would be good to have them to take with me. Hope you have a great season.
Hi Jeff and Bob, despite having spent almost 4hrs on both frontside ski comparison, I'm still struggling to chose one of them (narrow or wide). I'm increasing my level through instructor courses and I realize my current ski lacks in performance (2016 Head WC Rebels ISLR). However, in the quest of performance and rebound, I wouldn't like to sacrifice the ability to cruise or skid at slow speed (for demos while giving lessons for example). I'm definitely not a racer and doesn't have any racing background. I mostly ski on ice/hard pack canon snow in Québec. What frontside ski would you recommend (short to medium turn, narrow or "wide") for me and in which size? Height 182cm/6ft weight 98kg/215lbs aiming 90kg/198lbs. I can afford any of the list. I also own some Stöcklis SR95 for deeper snow or crud/slush days. Thanks!
It's funny because wide is still pretty narrow. I think that for skiers to be shopping the narrow category, that's a pretty specific thing. For Quebec skiing on firm snow, I think the wide frontside will offer a lot of grip and a bit more stability and balance. Nordica Spitfire 80 or Stockli Montero AX are two of my favorites as they blend smooth and high performance attributes insanely well. I'd go mid 170's in those skis.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks for your reply. This year is closer to no snow than firm snow in South Quebec 🙂. I really hesitated between the Montero AX and AS. Finally ordered the AS in 172cm. I may sacrifice a bit of top speed (to be confirmed), but really wanted to focus on a quick edge to edge and round curves at slow and medium speed. I'll give you my feedback when I receive them. There are tons of review out there on the AX and AR but not so much on the AS.
Hello, thanks for the video. I am doubting between Rossignol Forza 60 or Hero Elite Muti Turn (carbon version). I like doing short turns and going fast but at the same time want to perfect my Carving style and feel safe/comfortable. What would you say are the differences between these two and how to pick? Thanks!
The main difference is the turn shape--the skis have very similar builds. The Forza makes shorter turns while the MT is more in the mid range. If you're looking to perfect the carved turn and you like them a bit shorter, I'd go with the Forza.
Yes, you beat me to it. As far as the comments of our two favourite testers go, the Forza and Hero MT appear to be quite similar in built and purpose. Which of both would be more evolutive (room for improvement) for intermediate skiers? I would guess the MT? Are both as approachable and forgiving (here I would guess the Forza 60 is more friendly to mistakes?)
Awesome reviews. Can you do a review of skis for those looking to learn carving? Any skis you would recommend for skiers who are beginners and don’t know how to carve? What type of skis make it easier to learn how to carve? Won’t beat you up or won’t take too much input from the skier?
Love your videos and analysis. I am a strong intermediate getting back into skiing after a few years off. East coast. Looking for a mostly groomer ski but want something that can handle the late day junk. I think that 67-75 is too narrow so looking at the Ripstick 88, Wingman 82TI and Wingman 86TI. Prefer easy short/medium turns at slower speeds. Tried an older Kendo 88 last week and found it a bit too difficult to relax on. 5'9" and 185. Any ski recommendations and lengths appreciated. Thanks!
I'd look to the 82's for this application. The Wingman is great, and I'd also add in the Rossignol Experience 82Ti to the discussion. For a lighter and slightly more accessible version of this ski, check out the Armada Declivity 82 Ti. I'd look to the low 170's for length in these models.
The Spitfire a bit better. Both are narrow, so they're easy to get from edge to edge, but they're also pretty stiff and heavy, so a good amount of skill has to accompany both. Of those, I'd rather ski the Spitfire in bumps.
The Stockli is a bit more flexible and amenable in the shovel while the Blizzard is pretty stiff from tip to tail. The slightly narrower SC has more of a short turn mentality as well while the R15 has more of a mid-range radius.
Hello guys! Great review for the skis! I would like to ask you for an advise. I am from Europe and I am mostly skiing in Switzerland, 60% on-piste, 20% steep downhill, 20% powder. I am an intermediate to advance skier and I am very confuse and can't take a decision between the following skis, all of them look very nice and have nice characteristics: -Atomic Maverick 88ti or 95ti -Atomic Bent 90 or 100 -Salomon qst 92 or 98 -Dynastar M Free -Black Crows Captis ( or another models if you have any better recomandation ) -Armada ARV 94 I prefer the floaty feel and the skis to be playful under my feet, being able to do short fast turns. However, for the moment I don't have any thought to go in the park with the skis. I would like some skis that are doing a little bit of carving but being floaty under foot, being able to go in the powder without problems, and to ski the steep mountains without being worried about the skis. Mostly I am searching for a ski to have fun with, I tried the atomic x9s and they are not my style, being very stick to the ground.
Mixing floaty, playful, and quick turns, I think the QST 92 makes a lot of sense. Captis and ARV 94 are great choices--one on either side of the 92 in terms of width, but the 92 really does a great job of handling a lot of different things and checking a lot of boxes.
I was thinking to step up in width, to have more terrain versatility, including powder. I narrow it down to the following: - Atomic Bent 100 - Salomon QST 98 - Black Crows Camox I prefer something playful that can handle well all types of terrain. It is really really hard to make the final decision between this 3. I would really appreciate if you can help me with this.
Multigara feels a lot more upscale and smooth and powerful. The Curv GT is quicker and a bit more agile, but the Nordica feels like a more substantial ski for sure.
Very VERY interesting discussion, but it looks like I'm stuck with last year's T-bird 15 (174cm x 76mm). Oh, woe is me! These are rounded out with Peak 88's (I find them to be kinda Montero-ish - I wish I could get you guys on them and see what you think) and Enforcer 100's.
I have watched many of your reviews. I am an advanced skier and moving into my sixties. I have been searching without success for the same responsiveness, smooth and performance that I had in the sky style 1970s 200. Can you point me in the direction of what I should be looking for in today’s modern equipment? About 5-10 and 165lbs. Thank you!
Look for something with a long turn radius. You may have to go wider to find it, so something like the Black Crows Orb or the Dynastar M-Pro 90 feel like more traditional skis that may suit your needs.
I rented the Rossi Hero Elite MT last year. I was surprised how much I loved it given my typical ski is a pretty floppy 90mm all mountain twin tip. Any suggestions for something similar to the Hero Elite MT but easier to handle in the bumps and off piste?
Try the Kastle here in video i just tested mx75 and its great ski for medium turns, holds perfectly on piste and you can also go off for a while. It also makes very specific noise sounding like being made of glass.
Guys, I own one of the Stockli's previous WRT SC versions and since they're quite beaten, thinking of buying new model. Are your feelings about this years ski similar, kinda 'magic ski, +7 to your skill'? I mean, a ski that really makes hard things significantly easier?
Unfortunately not. We do not have that 2024 ski available. I will say that it is deceptively light for how big it is! Looks like an absolute blast in the soft stuff.
Problem with boots is that only certain specific boots fit a persons foot. You should make sure to never order boots online before checking/fitting them in person. I don't think it's fair to a boot manufacturer if someone reviews your boot which doesn't fit them.
There is a binding review on the channel. A few days old, but not many news on that side, besides the Head Protector. And these got their review last season as well.
Hi Guys, just found your channel and subscribed. I’m enjoying your videos. Can you recommend a new set of skis? 54 years old (male) 150 lbs 5”-9” Intermediate to advanced skier I prefer the steep groomed slopes. Long smooth turns while carrying some speed. Thanks for all your content.
Thanks! I think if you're in this zone and prefer groomed slopes and longer turns, the Nordica Spitfire 74 is amazing. Smooth, solid, and fun! I'd look to the low 170's for length.
I think we'd need an even narrower category for this ski--it's just so specific to mogul competition that it's tough to insert in any comparison, as it's just too unique.
I'm always interested in how these smaller companies fit in with some of the more established brands--I think it's tough to break into this group as most of these have a very strong race heritage.
@@SkiEssentials Yep that's fair. I think this is why you see a lot of the "indy" ski-makers going for more noodley all mountain skis (e.g. J Skis). Hoping to demo these Parlors next year @ Stowe along with some of these more traditional options y'all show-cased here!
Interestingly, we learned the other day that the Addikt will not be released in the US because the name is controversial. Apparently there's a drug problem in this country and the model will not make its way to our snow.
The snow surface must be correctly groomed in order to take benefit from these skis. that's why i switched to wide carving ski 80-85mm, much more versatile on most ski resorts.
Guys, please. A ski has a SIDECUT radius, not a "turn radius." Sidecut radius is a physical measurement of the shape of the ski. "Turn radius" is determined entirely by what the operator does. And, yes, while a smaller sidecut radius facilitates tight turn radii, it does not dicate the shape or size of each turn.
It's literally a manufacturer's spec written on the skis. Just let it go. Otherwise how do you suppose they compare skis of different specs. You want to hear 131/78/101 vs 130/80/100 instead?
Ok, I'm formally filing a complaint with Toyota for listing the turning radius of my car in the manual since it should be the tie-rod radius *aghast P.S. I don't trust the literacy level of anyone who uses "DUDE!"
@@puregsr Whoosh! You're hilarious! But either very poorly informed or very sloppy (which was my whole point to begin with). Cars DO have a measurable physical (minimum) turning radius defined by the outside of the arc traveled by the tires with the steering wheel at full lock. Skis have no such minimum, nor any single radius of turn that can be defined by a number. Skis do, however, have a physical shape which includes a specific measurable (or, more commonly, calculable) SIDECUT curve which is readily defined by its RADIUS. And that is the figure that manufacturers mark on their skis. For perspective, note that while 13m is a typical sidecut radius for a modern slalom SKI, a TURN with a 13m (~43 ft.) radius would be ridiculously large. You would do well to actually read what I originally wrote.
@@DirtRoadie You should check your math before being so certain.... [EDIT: I should have double checked my math -- I slipped a decimal. Sorry for the blood pressure spike :-) ]