The advice from a pro shop, which can test numerous latest models on the snow and compare and evaluate products based on their extensive knowledge and user feedback, is highly persuasive. Let's find out which 26-27 skis a pro shop would most recommend to a skier who skis half in the backcountry and half on groomed slopes
AGENT 3 | FACTION
the agility of a tour ski with high satisfaction in all situations.
While categorized as a lightweight touring ski, it will also satisfy those who want to ski firmly on groomed slopes. You'll get high satisfaction in all situations, from powder and groomed snow to rough runs and spring snow.
Choosing bindings can be tricky, but the correct approach is to choose a type that is compatible with your boots, not the skis. If you're using touring boots, choose touring bindings. If you're using sturdy alpine boots and want to ski hard on groomed slopes, a high-strength model like the DUKE PT would be a good choice.
FACTORY 102| Extreme
From icy patches to deep powder, this versatile model enhances your enjoyment.
With just this one pair of skis, you can effortlessly handle all conditions, from the finest powder and beautifully groomed slopes to firm, icy patches.
From wide turns to short turns, stability and enjoyment increase as you pick up speed.
FARTHER | BLASTRACK
Say goodbye to "neither here nor there." This Japanese-made ski boasts an overwhelming range of adaptability,
seamlessly handling everything from backcountry to groomed slopes. Unlike many models that feel somewhat ambiguous, this ski offers exceptional versatility, handling everything from early morning powder to rough afternoon runs at a high level.
Junichi Sato, Staff member at outdoor shop Permark
FREERIDE 98｜VAN-DEER RedBullSports
The ultimate alpine champion's ski:"A ski that can ski on any terrain."
This is the all-mountain model from VANDEER, designed by Marcel Hirscher, the overall winner of the Alpine World Cup. At 2,045g (180cm), it's not exactly light, but it's made with ultra-thin double titanium construction of 0.5mm and 0.4mm titanium, based on the concept of "a ski that can ski on any terrain."
Despite a waist width of 98mm, the tip width is a wide 138mm, achieving both a floating feel in powder and a small turning radius of R18m. It's very easy to handle.
Despite its ease of use, it also possesses rigidity, so you can either lighten the overall weight by setting up lightweight bindings, or further enhance the skiing performance with high-rigidity bindings. You can customize it to your skier's desires. Would
n't you like to try riding an all-mountain ski created based on experience honed in alpine racing?
PAGODA TOUR CFL 105｜DPS
Incredibly light. An overwhelming sense of stability and speed that pleasantly surprises you.
The moment you hold it, you feel an overwhelming lightness. And yet, it offers a sense of stability and speed that is contradictory to that. The front rocker is firm, but the contact length is designed to be long, so the balance between buoyancy and gliding performance is excellent even in deep snow.
In addition, the R18m sidecut allows you to draw solid carving turns even on hard-packed slopes.
PANDORA 99 | LINE
The advantage of a 99mm waist width. The Pandora is a ski that lets you enjoy everything with just one pair of
skis. It's pleasantly easy to use and has a mild feel. You can slide, and carving turns using the edges are easy, so with the 99mm Pandora, you can enjoy both backcountry and groomed slopes with just one pair of skis.
There are four models of Pandora: 106, 99, 92, and 85, but if you plan to ski powder and backcountry, the 99 is recommended. If you ski backcountry or powder more often than that, choose the 106. If you ski on groomed slopes more often, you can't go wrong with the 99 or 92.
REVOLT 114｜VÖLKL
While it has a freestyle look,
this ski retains Volkl's traditional sharpness. Although it's not particularly lightweight, it's a ski that makes carving on groomed slopes, as well as powder, incredibly enjoyable. While
its appearance and specifications suggest a freestyle look, it has a solid camber underfoot, making it a recommended choice for skiers who want to aggressively push down on their turns.
Unleashed 106 CA | NORDICA
50/50 on groomed slopes, 50/50 in powder. Its
firm flex boasts excellent glide and edge grip, allowing for powerful, grippy turns. Furthermore, its radius enables deep carving turns, making it a truly capable freeride ski. With a 106mm waist, I think you'll enjoy it 50/50 on groomed slopes and powder!
