The advice from a pro shop, which can test ride numerous new 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 ski shop would recommend most from the 26-27 new models as a "directional model that allows for high-speed skiing in the backcountry and aggressive turns off-piste."
ANTIMATTER114｜ARMADA
boasts otherworldly performance,
perfect for advanced skiers who want to blend orthodox, aggressive freestyle directional skiing with a freeride-like style. The target speed range is quite high. While it will likely require a solid riding position and a certain level of physical fitness, it seems like a ski with extremely high performance even in tough conditions. I'm considering buying this ski for myself in the 26-27 season.
Even at high speeds, it offers complete control and is a tough, reliable partner.
The overall rigidity is high, the edges grip well into the latter half of the turn, and the tail has good grip and a smooth gliding feel. In particular, it will be an indispensable ski for skiers who want to ski without losing speed in any situation. Despite its strength, the rocker profile is well-balanced, and the ski does not feel difficult to maneuver.
BLAZE 104 TEAL｜VOLKL
This BC ski is undoubtedly worthy of being called a masterpiece.
Its 143mm tip width and smoothly rising long nose rocker create excellent buoyancy, allowing for high-speed gliding with virtually no resistance in deep snow. Volkl's unique "3D Radius 4D Sidecut Construction" enables solid turns in any situation.
From deep powder to spring slush, from BC areas to groomed slopes, this is a ski that is truly enjoyable and undoubtedly worthy of being called a masterpiece.
FACTORY 112｜EXTREME
It feels comfortable even for recreational skiers. A reliable partner for backcountry skiing,
it's neither too heavy nor too light, with an exquisite weight balance that handles all snow conditions. It provides a strong grip from the tip, so it has stability that prevents it from losing control even when encountering strong snow resistance.
I also like that it feels natural to switch to from recreational skis. It's a ski I personally use in the backcountry, and it's a reliable partner.
MINDBENDER 111｜K2
which gives you the feeling that your feet are sticking to the snow, allowing you to gain speed
. This material is surprisingly effective, providing excellent grip underfoot. It felt like my feet were glued to the snow, and before I knew it, I was skiing at high speed. These skis offer great maneuverability, despite their relatively wide waist.
With production moved to a German factory, expectations for even greater perfection are high.
The K2 Mindbender, a legendary model, has undergone a complete redesign,providingincreases edge grip and dramatically improves high-speed stability. With production also moved to a German factory, expectations for an even higher level of perfection are high.
Some may find the 111mm waist width a bit wide, but it poses absolutely no problem for use on the slopes. The secure and supportive feel allows skiers to fully embrace their desire to push themselves further. Experience the Mindbender, now more refined than ever before!
MINDBENDER 101｜K2
It effortlessly clears even the most icy surfaces. A reliable partner,
it minimizes minute vibrations while skiing, allowing for a stable ride that feels like it's glued to the snow surface, even in rough conditions. It provides absolute confidence that your feet won't slip even in hard snow conditions, allowing you to ski without hesitation in any situation.
Junichi Sato, Staff member at outdoor shop Permark
OPTIC 114 | LINE
For aggressive skiers who want to push the limits of speed,
the Line's blades utilize Gaspedal Metal Technology, providing stability even at high speeds without any fluttering underfoot. It also offers excellent buoyancy in deep powder, allowing you to attack without hesitation at top speed. Its superior performance means you can tackle even rough, bumpy slopes after powder skiing with the force of a tank. Recommended for skiers who constantly pursue speed and seek an aggressive style of skiing.
SOUL 102 (OPEN) | ROSSIGNOL
These versatile skis
offer a perfect balance of performance and maneuverability. While they may feel a little heavy at first, this weight contributes to their ability to cut through rough snow. Furthermore, the metal reinforcement underfoot provides excellent grip and responsiveness.
On the other hand, thanks to Rossignol's signature "AIR TIP" technology, the ski tips have a very high swing weight, making them light and easy to handle. You can even make sharp turns in powder!
