2024 Blizzard Zero G 105 - SkiEssentials.com Ski Test

[@nickfadial864]

Hi guys! Have you messed around with the mount point on this ski at all? It looks like a great option but I am used to skis with more centered mount points. Also wondering how these compare to an elan ripstick 104 tour and if there are any other skis I should be looking at (line visions are a no-go, I've seen too many explode). I'm a Wyoming based skier. I do a lot of freeride/freestyle type skiing and I have a racing background. I'm looking for a backcountry daily driver to put a full pin on.

[@SkiEssentials]

No we have not messed with mount point as most touring skiers will keep the pins closer to the middle for better weight distribution on the climbs. The Ripstick 104 feels a lot more central for sure and that seems like a great option for what you're describing.

[@rydes107]

If you had to choose between the Blizzard Zero G 105 Skis, Atomic Backland 107 Skis, or QST Echo which would you choose? My set-up would be one ski quiver with a 50/50 mix between touring and resort

[@SkiEssentials]

I don't think the Zero G has a whole lot of resort application. It's got a lot of carbon in it that makes it pretty chatty when it comes to adverse conditions or terrain. The Echo is on the other end of the spectrum, as it's very close in nature to the normal alpine QST 106. Backland lies somewhere in the middle, containing a light and efficient uphill build with an impressive downhill character. We've seen some very high level resort skiing done on the Backland. For one ski in this width range for both up and downhill performance, I'd go with the Backland. Have fun! SE

[@fadet0green]

Hey Bob, how this ski compare to BlackCrows Navis Freebird and Salo qst 106 echo? Which one would be your quiver ski and why?

[@SkiEssentials]

If I'm using it as a touring-exclusive ski, I'm going Zero G all day. Very efficient on the uphills with little to no resort application. The Navis I've never loved, either the older alpine version or the newer Freebird--just feels like it wants to go straight. QST Echo would be my resort/tour hybrid choice. That ski has a great shape and feels substantial enough while not weighing a ton.