Pretty diverse characters
If there’s one category it’s challenging to assign awards to, this is it. Because it’s one of the categories that’s seen the most changes, and the one that encompasses a selection of skis with pretty diverse characters. Plus, it groups together many old-style skis with cutting edge ones. If you want to play safe, regardless of our awards, browse the specs for skis with a waist between 87 and 91—they’re all solid choices.
Ski of the year
Backland 89 SL t’s an intelligent choice as the extra three millimeters over the 86 SL delivers added versatility, thanks also to the construction which focuses on hardpack conditions (also on piste). Performance is never too twitchy, with great float in powder, and easy skiing in crud. Refined for refined skiers, and fun for demanding skiers, this is the upgraded Backland 88: a super-modern ski for those who don’t want to trade weight for skiing performance.
Pro's choice
M-Vertical 82 was probably the greatest surprise of the test. Because, though this super-narrow ski was a bit of an outlier, it garnered the most unanimous consensus among the testers. Superb level of control for a ski with an 82 mm waist, unexpectedly versatile even in powder. And it’s kind on the pocket too...
People's choice
Engage autopilot... and go ski. And it could hardly be otherwise with the rocker it sports. After all, Wayback 89 is a ski that everyone agrees on: both guides out with clients and the clients themselves. No problem. Though don’t take it on piste. The Wayback saga continues. It holds its own against other popular skis within an elite category (for example the Atomic Backland 88). But in the end the feeling of ease of skiing it delivers was for us the clincher.
Smart choice
Smart choice for mountain guides, ski instructors and clients. Despite its light wood and carbon fibers core, Core Carbon 89 Lite it's fun and forgiving. In short, it's a one quiver. If you like to take it easy, have a look to the Rossignol Escaper 87 Nano too.
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Materials are evolving, which is increasing the opportunities for pushing the boundaries of mountaineering splitboarding. It’s no longer just about easy tours, a few jumps and a beer. Thanks to innovative new setups and growing knowledge within the community, long ascents and steep terrain no longer intimidate.
Weighing from less than 100 grams to nearly a kilo, the common denominator are the pins into which you stick your boots and that enable you to climb. From the revolution of the pin binding to the latest hybrids for freeriding, here are all the best bindings the skimo market has to offer.
Probably The most accurate ski test out there.
