For big mountain riding, you need a bike with a big scale. BLACKCROWS "ANIMA" or DYNASTAR "M-FREE 112 F-TEAM OPEN"? │26-27 New Model Comparison

The differences in the "feel" and "character" of skis cannot be fully understood from the spec numbers alone. This is the depth and enjoyment of choosing skis. Therefore, we've picked out two similar 26-27 model skis to highlight. Let's explore their individual characteristics based on user test ride reviews. Which one will you choose?

BLACKCROWS' "ANIMA" or DYNASYAR's "M-FREE 112 F-TEAM OPEN"?

Both the power and speed are on a grand scale. Which one will you choose to tackle the big slopes?

Model	D (Dimension)	R (radius)
ANIMA	D=147-115-136mm	R = 19m (189.2cm)
M-FREE 112 F-TEAM OPEN	D=141-111-133mm	R = 20m (183cm)

"ANIMA" is this kind of ski

Positioned in the big mountain realm, the "anima" boasts some of BLACKCROWS' most powerful performance. While the "nocta" with its 122mm center width handles deep powder and the "atris" with its 105mm width handles everyday riding, this model is designed for speed and large-scale skiing. In addition to the buoyancy and high-speed stability of its 115mm width, the double rocker structure ensures maneuverability. This is a board for the core freeride enthusiasts, designed for confident, aggressive riding

Makito Shiojima, a user who loves ANIMA, says that the machine is truly a "tank on the snow."

It has a consistently strong stiffness and is extremely rigid. The stability underfoot is particularly outstanding, and I felt no anxiety even at high speeds. On the other hand, at low speeds, it is stiff and does not allow for easy flexing, so I felt that firm weight transfer is required. It has a

solid, heavy swing weight. Turning on groomed slopes requires considerable power and skill, but it is relatively easy to handle in powder. I felt a slight catching sensation in the tail towards the end of the turn, but the rocker shape at the front and rear, with a slight camber remaining, provides sufficient buoyancy even in deep snow.

Particularly noteworthy is its ability to break through rough snow surfaces without the tip hitting the surface, crushing the bumps as it goes. It is ideal for using its weight to control the snow surface and draw stable, big turns. It is especially recommended for those who want to ski with power and an aggressive style.

"M-FREE 112 F-TEAM OPEN" is this kind of ski

Belonging to DYNASTAR's "PROGRESSIVE FREE" series, this model is a powerful and playful board that blends freestyle elements with a focus on straight-line tracking for freeride. It's the widest of the four models, with a center width ranging from 90 to 118mm, making it more suited to powder and big mountain riding. The twin-tip design, progressive rocker, and large 22-24m radius provide a balance of performance and playfulness. The F-TEAM specification, which enhances rigidity and stability, is ideal for core riders who want to handle rough snow surfaces

This is another review of a user's favorite device. The reviewer is user Motoki Kato

Overall, it has strong rigidity and responds very honestly to load. The flex of the tip and tail during turns is well-balanced, giving a feeling of naturally connecting arcs. The tip is stiff yet flexes when needed, and combined with the stability of the center, power transfer is very smooth. The tail can also produce pop for ollies and other tricks.

The stiffness of the nose rocker and camber provides stability and prevents wobbling at high speeds. There is no nose slapping or bouncing. It can handle changes in terrain and snow conditions without any problems, so you can confidently entrust your body to it. It was a more all-around board than I expected.

It feels heavy when you hold it, but you don't notice the weight while riding. Anyone who can flex the board to turn should have no problem handling it. The only thing to consider is the width and length. The sandwich construction gives it good flex. It's definitely a board to choose from for alpine, basic, mogul, and freeride.

What we learned from the comparison

These two boards are big mountain oriented and designed for high-speed riding. The ANIMA boasts high maneuverability thanks to its double rocker, while also offering solid flex underfoot and stability thanks to its carbon/Kevlar construction. Even at high speeds, it allows you to powerfully carve the lines you intend. On the other hand, the M-FREE utilizes a hybrid core structure designed with shock absorption in mind and a long rocker to smoothly move the board, from slashes and airs to quick changes of direction. Will you power through or flexibly maneuver? How do you want to ride those big slopes?