The redesigned Salomon "QST 106". A fun ski that mixes BLANK and 98

Salomon's QST series is now in its third generation since its debut in 2016. For 2021-2022, the concept has been revisited, with a waist range and design optimized for the current freeride scene, and the QST BLANK has been particularly popular

The third generation QST was finally completed in the 2022-23 season

For 2022-23, the QST 106, QST 92, and women's models will be updated to the latest structure

First, let's review the QST series. The concept is an all-mountain model that can handle any situation. What the lineup has in common is the ability to easily turn quickly regardless of the situation and to steadily transfer the skier's power to the ski. The tip and tail are thin and light, and the center is made of a strong wood core. It is based on the "SpaceFrame 3.0," an evolution of the "SpaceFrame" that Salomon has been cultivating for nearly 20 years. In addition, it features a shape with a long rocker section and a double sidewall structure that provides high grip

The lineup includes four models with waist widths ranging from 92mm to 112mm, three women's models with waist widths of 92mm, 98mm, and 106mm, and the addition of the SPARK and TEAM models for the next generation of freeriders, for a total of nine models

"QST106" is a redesign based on the highly refined "BLANK" and "98"

Of these, the QST 106 is particularly noteworthy. The QST series is known for its versatile design and hard-hitting performance. By combining the already completed QST BLANK and QST 98, the QST 106 has been re-edited to be a more playful ski in the lineup. Its performance is immediately apparent in the video below

With a variety of turns you can control at will, quick pivots, the ability to lick or sink into deep fresh snow, a tail that slides easily, carving edges that stick to groomed runs, and stability at high speeds, this one board will allow you to enjoy the snowy mountains to the fullest

There are two key points that support this type of skating: shape and technology

First, the shape. The QST 106 features a modern rocker shape. The widest points at the tip and tail have been moved closer to the center than before. This makes it easier to pivot quickly and improves agility. This also makes the rocker section longer than before, which in turn makes it easier to float in fresh snow. The rocker and camber distribution throughout the ski is a twin rocker: 25% rocker, 60% camber at the tip, and 15% rocker at the tail

The technology is the same as that of the QST series.
The thin tip and tail feature a "Cork Dampener" with built-in cork to absorb vibrations, resulting in easy handling and a smooth glide.
The underfoot features a double sidewall structure injected with high-density ABS for high impact resistance. This not only improves edge hold, but the "C/FX Carbon" from tip to tail, a blend of carbon and hemp, transfers power to the entire ski without any loss. This is Salomon's proprietary reinforcement material that combines the lightness, strength, and stability of carbon with the vibration absorption properties of hemp. It's also 150g lighter than the previous model, which also contributes to its ease of handling.

The women's model lineup also incorporates similar features, so female skiers can enjoy the versatility and gliding performance unique to the QST series

The QST 106 can also be enjoyed in a wide range of situations depending on the bindings you attach to it. For those who enjoy backcountry as their main field, choose the MTN. For those who want to alternate between ski resorts and backcountry and draw aggressive lines, choose the SHIFT. For those who want to specialize in skiing and maximize the ski's performance, we recommend the STRIVE, which will be released for the 23rd season. The QST 106 can be adapted to suit the situation depending on the bindings you attach to it

Finally, let's hear test drive reviews from Akira Sasaki and Noriko Fukushima, who have ridden the QST 106 and QST STELLA 106, respectively

Akira Sasaki and Noriko Fukushima's respective ratings

・Akira Sasaki
Model: QST 106
Instagram: ＠akiraexploring

The length of the skis I use is 181 cm.
The higher-end model of the QST 106 is the QST BLANK, but the biggest difference is the rocker. The 106 has a longer contact area than the BLANK. This makes it a board that can cut even on hard surfaces and provides stability when picking up speed.
Furthermore, like the BLANK, it has a double sidewall system, making the center position very strong. On hard slopes or when you want to carve well, stepping on the skis increases stability.

You might imagine it's for icy or groomed runs, but the board flexes well, so you can sink it into fresh snow and then pop it up with all your might. It's a board that can do things like old-school dolphin turns. What's more, the tail is strong, so you can do freestyle fun like tail taps

I set the bindings in the recommended position. The reason is that the increased contact area allows the board to perform at its best. Being able to make the most of the side curve is the most comfortable way to ride. I think this is the perfect board for anyone looking to perfect their turns

　Model used
by Noriko Fukushima Instagram: ＠norikofukushima

The QST STELLA 106 is the ski with the widest waist among women's models for enjoying powder

While these skis are naturally great for powder riding, you can enjoy them anywhere with just one pair of skis, including on all slopes. Also, because they are designed for women, they are very lightweight and easy to handle. They offer excellent maneuverability in powder, and even in deep powder, you can feel ample buoyancy

I feel like the balance of the flex, torsion, rocker position, top shape, and board strength at speed are all just right

Of all the boards in the lineup, this 106mm waist width is the best balance for me, so I really like it and have it on board. The radius is 18m. It has good tension, so you can use the tail firmly even in the latter half of the turn and ride it all the way to the end

What I like about these skis is that they are easy to enjoy in all aspects, from carving to moguls and tree runs. I would recommend these skis to women who want to enjoy both the slopes and powder with one pair of skis, women who feel that their skiing skills have improved, and women who like to connect turns firmly down the mountain

The QST 106 received rave reviews at test rides held around the country throughout the season. Like the two riders, comments included, "It has a fast edge transfer considering the width of the shape," "Turning is exhilarating not only in powder but also on groomed snow," and "The rocker rise is lower than other models, so the snow contact length is longer and more stable."

Regardless of the conditions, you can ride in the right position, and for those who can push off the skis, the skis will be easier to ride and you'll enjoy turning more than ever before.
In addition to its utility performance, the QST 106 offers a variety of ways to play and ski. It's one to watch for the 2022-2023 season.